Tucked into the rolling plains of southern Portugal, Altivo—more commonly known as Alvito—is a small historic village in the municipality of Alvito, district of Beja. Though it’s easy to miss on a map, it’s a slice of authentic Alentejo life, blending deep history, local culture, and serene landscapes.
📊 1. Total Population
As of the 2021 census, the parish of Alvito has 1,196 inhabitants (571 men, 625 women) . The broader municipality covers two parishes—Alvito and Vila Nova da Baronia—with a total population of 2,280 in 2021, down from 2,688 in 2001 .
🗓 2. Festival Dates
The standout local festival is the Gastronomic Cycle “As Ervas da Baronia”, celebrated twice yearly—in February and June. During these weeks, local restaurants highlight dishes featuring wild asparagus, catacuzes, carrasquinhas, and beldroegas—typical Alentejo greens .
At the municipal level, the municipal holiday celebrating Ascension Day (a movable feast 39 days after Easter) is also observed .
📏 3. Distance to Lisbon
By road, Alvito sits about 173 km south of Lisbon, reached via the A2/A6 motorway and EN254–EN257—with a car ride taking around 1 h 45 min .
However, the straight‑line “as‑the‑crow‑flies” distance to Lisbon is only about 112 km, roughly northwest .
🧭 4. How to Go There
By Car
The easiest and fastest option:
Lisbon → Ponte 25 de Abril or Vasco da Gama Bridge → A2 → A6 toward Évora → exit onto EN254 → EN257 → Alvito. Expect roughly 1 h 45 min of scenic Alentejo driving .
By Train
Take a comboio Intercidades or Regional train from Lisbon (Sete Rios/Casa Branca) to Beja or Casa Branca. From there you’ll need local transport—bus, taxi, or regional train—to Alvito or Vila Nova da Baronia. Total journey: 3–3½ hours and costs from €8–43 .
By Bus
There’s a daily Rodoviária do Alentejo bus from Alvito to Beja (~1h 18m, €4–7). You would first get to Beja by bus from Lisbon (Expressos), then connect toward Alvito. Total time usually 4 h+ including transfers .
By Taxi
From Beja to Alvito, expect ~€45–55 and ~36 minutes drive .
🏰 A Bit of History & Atmosphere
Alvito emerged from Neolithic roots through Roman, Visigothic, and Moorish eras. Conquered by Portugal in 1234, it received a charter in 1280–83 and held its first fair in 1296, signaling early local importance .
By the 15th century, Alvito was a flourishing barony. The Castle of Alvito was rebuilt between 1494–1504 in a unique Manueline‑Mudéjar style and today functions as a boutique Pousada de Portugal . Adjacent are the Igreja Matriz (main church) and the lovely Igreja de Santo António, dating from the 1640s, adorned with 17th‑century blue‑and‑white tiles and golden altarpieces .
Visitors can climb the castle’s tower for panoramic views over Alentejo’s olive-filled plains—what locals call the “Miradouro de Altivo”
🌾 Final Thoughts
In summary, Alvito (aka Altivo) offers:
Population: ~1,200 in the parish; ~2,280 in the municipality (2021).
Festivals: Herb‑themed gastronomy in Feb & Jun; Ascension Day municipal holiday.
Distance: ~173 km (1 h 45 min by road) from Lisbon; ~112 km straight‑line.
Access: Best by car; train & bus options via Beja; local buses and taxis available.
This charming village is perfect for travelers seeking authentic rural Portugal—rich in history, serene landscapes, and unique terroir—yet still accessible from the capital.
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