A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Crato: A Historic Treasure in the Heart of Portugal

Located in the district of Portalegre, in the Alentejo region, Crato is a Portuguese municipality distinguished by its rich history and impressive architectural heritage. This charming place, which was once the headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller Order in Portugal, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country's history.

Historic Heritage

Crato's historic heritage is one of its main attractions. The Monastery of Flor da Rosa, an ancient Templar fortress that has been converted into a historical inn, is one of the most emblematic places in the city. This impressive building combines elements of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architecture and houses a museum where visitors can learn more about the history of the Knights Hospitaller Order in Portugal.

Another point of interest is the Main Church of Crato, a beautiful 16th-century building that stands out for its stunning Manueline portal. The church hosts a series of sacred artworks, including an impressive baroque altarpiece.

Nature and Landscapes

In addition to its historic heritage, Crato also offers visitors the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Alentejo region. The Natural Park of São Mamede Hill, located near Crato, is a perfect spot for nature lovers. This park provides a variety of walking and cycling trails, as well as opportunities to observe local wildlife, including several species of rare birds.

Local Cuisine

It's impossible to talk about Crato without mentioning its delicious local cuisine. The region is famous for its pork dishes, cheeses, and wines. Visitors can savor these delicacies in the numerous restaurants and taverns throughout the city, where traditional meals are served alongside the excellent wines of the area.

Festivals and Events

Crato is also known for its festivals and events, which attract visitors from all over the country. One of the most notable is the Crato Fair, one of the oldest and largest fairs in Portugal, held every year in late August. During this fair, visitors can enjoy concerts, exhibitions, parades, and a variety of activities for all ages.

In summary, Crato offers something for everyone: from impressive historical monuments and beautiful natural landscapes to delicious local cuisine and exciting festivals. No doubt, a visit to this enchanting Portuguese municipality will be an unforgettable experience.

Gastronomic Products of Crato

• Nisa Cheese

  Nisa Cheese is a sheep's milk cheese produced in the Crato region. This cheese has a firm texture and a slightly acidic and salty flavor. It is a product protected by the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), ensuring its quality and authenticity.

• Sausages

  The sausages are traditional charcuterie products from the Crato region. These include farinheira, a type of sausage made with flour, pork fat, and spices; morcela, a blood pudding; and alheira, a sausage made with pork and bread. All these sausages can be enjoyed on their own or as part of other dishes.

• Wine from Portalegre

  The Portalegre region, where Crato is located, is known for its wines. The wines from this region are known for their high quality and intense and complex flavor. The region produces both red and white wines, all of which perfectly complement the rich gastronomy of the area.

• Honey from Assare

  Assare Honey is a honey produced in the Crato region. This honey is known for its sweet flavor and smooth texture. It is a natural product used both in cooking and traditional medicine of the region.

Places Near Crato

If you're in Crato and wish to explore more, here are some cities and towns nearby that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Castelo de Vide, in Portugal, is a medieval charm with cobblestone streets, an old castle and panoramic views. It stands out for its local cuisine, featuring dishes such as golden cod and soup made of sarapatel, and wines from the Alentejo region.

Monforte de Lemos, in Galicia, Spain, is an enchanting tourist destination, famous for its impressive medieval castle, vineyard and wine from the Ribeira Sacra region. Visitors can enjoy rich local cuisine featuring seafood and tapas.