Vila Viçosa, often called the “Princess of Alentejo,” is a picturesque town and municipality nestled amidst rolling cork oak forests and marble-rich hillsides in Portugal’s Évora District. Known for its regal architecture, including the magnificent Ducal Palace of the House of Braganza, this delightful town offers an authentic blend of cultural heritage and rural charm, making it a captivating escape from Lisbon.
📊 1. Total Population
As of the 2011 census, the municipality of Vila Viçosa had a population of 8,319, spread across an area of 194.86 km²—yielding a population density of around 43 people per km² . Within the town itself, the parish of Nossa Senhora da Conceição had approximately 4,635 residents in 2024 .
🗓 2. Festival Dates
Vila Viçosa hosts several signature events throughout the year:
Festa dos Capuchos – A regional celebration dating back more than 150 years, honoring Our Lady of Mercy and Senhor Jesus dos Aflitos. It runs annually in mid-September, typically around September 13–16, and combines religious observance, live music, bull events, and food vendors .
Feira de Inspiração Renascentista – A Renaissance-inspired fair held in early June (typically June 6–8), with historical reenactments, markets, music, dance, and crafts set within the castle walls .
Noites de Verão – A four-day summer festivity in late June, featuring live music, street food, artisan stalls, and even a “summer carnival” atmosphere .
📏 3. Distance to Lisbon
Vila Viçosa is situated approximately 185 km east of Lisbon, translating to a car journey of around 2 hours via the A2 and A6 motorways . The straight-line distance is slightly shorter—about 150 km .
🚗 4. How to go There
By Car
This is the most direct option. From Lisbon, drive south via Ponte 25 de Abril or Vasco da Gama → A2 → A6 toward Évora → exit for Vila Viçosa. The trip typically takes about 2 hours.
By Train + Bus
The Vila Viçosa rail branch line opened in 1905 but is no longer in regular service . Instead, travelers take a train from Lisbon to Estremoz or Évora, then catch a regional bus or taxi to Vila Viçosa (~30–40 min).
By Bus
Regional buses link Lisbon to Évora and Estremoz. Transfers from either town are required to reach Vila Viçosa, adding another hour to your journey.
🏰 Historical & Local Highlights
Vila Viçosa dates back to Roman times and saw occupations by Visigoths and Moors before its 1217 reconquest by the Order of Aviz . In 1270, it received a royal charter, and in the early 14th century, King Dinis built a fortress there . The House of Braganza turned Vila Viçosa into their primary base in 1461, constructing the Ducal Palace beginning in 1502—a masterpiece of late Renaissance style . The site includes the adjacent 14th-century castle, serving as the family’s stronghold before the palace .
Today, the economy revolves around marble production—Vila Viçosa is famously known as the “Portuguese capital of marble”—and tourism, which ensures the preservation and celebration of its noble legacy .
✨ Final Thoughts
Vila Viçosa is a regal gem in Alentejo—rich in history, crowned by the Braganza palace and castle, adorned with marble, and enlivened by centuries-old festivals. With a modest population, vibrant cultural calendar, and accessible location just 2 hours from Lisbon, it’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking Portugal’s grandeur beyond the capital.