Vendas Novas: Royal History, Azulejos and Local Cuisine

For two nights, the Palácio das Passagens hosted the royal party on its way to Caia for the exchange of the princesses. The palace was built in 1728 on the orders of King João V. In Vendas Novas, this royal history, other buildings and the town’s military tradition come together with a distinctive food culture.

Royal History and Buildings

The Capela Real do Palácio das Passagens was also probably built in 1728 on the orders of João V. It was intended to provide spiritual support for the royal family and their guests during their stay at the palace, and is considered an example of palace architecture. Its design is thought to be attributed to the architect Custódio Vieira.

Particularly striking is the continuous, approximately 1.80-metre-high covering of blue-and-white azulejos with figurative panels. These can be dated to around 1750, with the exception of one panel depicting Saint Barbara, which dates from 1972. The decoration thus brings together a specific decorative design and several layers of history.

The Chafariz Real also dates from 1728. It was built as a watering trough for the workers and animals involved in constructing the royal palace, and is located behind today’s municipal market in a pedestrian area. Another royal commission, by contrast, remained at the planning stage: in 1896, King Carlos I had the Palácio do Vidigal planned as a hunting lodge. The complex includes a chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Conceição and an arena where various bullfights were held.

The Moinho de Vento adds to this architectural history: it probably dates from the 19th century and is the only known example of its kind in the municipality. In Landeira, about 20 kilometres from Vendas Novas, stands the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré. It is the oldest building in the municipality and dates from the 15th century.

Museums, Culture and Landscape

The Museu da Escola Prática de Artilharia traces the development of artillery from the late 19th century onwards. It comprises an outdoor area and an indoor area with eight rooms. This brings both the historical development of military affairs and the museum’s layout into focus.

The Fórum Cultural „A Praça“ has one area for making artistic objects and another for concerts, conferences, exhibitions and performing arts. The forum has seating for up to 300 people. Its varied uses give culture enthusiasts several things to consider when deciding which events or art forms to include in their travel plans.

The Jardim Público de Vendas Novas covers four hectares. Preserved features from former farms include orchards, cork oaks, holm oaks and palm trees, as well as fountains, pools and irrigation channels. This combination of plants and water features reflects the garden’s agricultural heritage.

Local Cuisine and Wine

One of the town’s well-known specialities is the Bifana de Vendas Novas: a flattened pork loin steak, fried in a rich butter sauce and served in a more or less toasted bread roll. Granadas represent another culinary tradition. This sweet from Vendas Novas was created in 1972 at the initiative of Mr Marques and is inspired by the town’s military tradition. Fresh, artisan sheep’s cheese from Queijaria das Romãs is also part of local food production.

Those interested in wine can take winery tours and enjoy tastings at Herdade da Ajuda Nova. You should check the booking arrangements before your trip. Off-road excursions are also offered at the estate; this is a separate activity from the wine offerings.

Events and Practical Information

Recurring events include the Feira de Maio in May, Noites de Verão from Friday to Sunday in July and August, Festas do Concelho on 7 September, the Feira de Setembro, and a monthly market on the third Sunday of each month. If an event is important to your trip, check the dates for your planned stay.

The railway history also goes back a long way: Vendas Novas station opened on 1 February 1861. The town was therefore one of the first places in Portugal to have a railway connection. For getting around Vendas Novas, Princesinhas provides a shared fleet of eight bicycles and four electric bicycles. Check availability before making plans.

Discover More Destinations

Vendas Novas, Landeira, Silveiras, Evora, Vila Viçosa, Alandroal, Portel, Mora

For the main travel overview: Evora.