Elvas, also nicknamed “Queen of the Border”, is one of the hidden pearls in the Alentejo streak. Due to its strategic position near the Spanish border, Elvas was marked by war. This military history can be revisited through a tour of the city's rich military heritage.

Its fortifications, together with the Santa Luzia and Nossa Senhora da Graça Fortes, are considered one of the largest and best preserved bastioned fortifications in the world. Like the center of Elvas, they are very well preserved.

There are numerous reasons to visit Elvas, as their importance is not limited to military heritage. It is a testimony of its importance the rich religious heritage composed of numerous churches, including the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (which became the Cathedral and is one of the most remarkable churches in the city), several convents and the sanctuary of Lord Jesus of Mercy.

Not surprisingly, therefore, Elvas was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in June 2012. This classification covers the entire historic center, the bastioned walls of the 19th century. XVII, the Fort of Santa Luzia, the Fort of Grace, the Amoreira Aqueduct and the three fortins: São Pedro, São Mamede and São Domingos or Piedade. Evora and Elvas are the two cities of the Alentejo considered a world heritage site by UNESCO.

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