About Alvito

Alvito is a town and municipality in the district of Beja, Portugal. The municipality has a total area of 303.6 km² and a total population of 5,296 inhabitants. The town of Alvito is located in the western part of the district of Beja, near the border with Spain. The municipality is situated approximately 150 km from Lisbon and 30 km from the city of Badajoz, Spain. The town of Alvito dates back to the 12th century, when it was founded by the Knights Templar. The town's name is derived from the Latin word "albus" meaning "white", in reference to the white limestone that is found in the area. The town is home to the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, which houses a collection of artifacts from the Neolithic, Roman and Moorish periods. The municipality of Alvito is home to many historical and cultural landmarks. The Castle of Alvito, which was built in the 13th century, is one of the most important buildings in the town. The castle was the seat of the Order of the Knights Templar in Portugal and was later used as a stronghold by the Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem. The Church of Nossa Senhora da Assuncao, which was constructed in the 15th century, is another important landmark in Alvito. The church is notable for its Gothic architecture and itstile roof. The municipality of Alvito is served by a number of educational institutions, including the Escola Secundaria de Alvito, which offers secondary education, and the Instituto Politécnico de Beja, which offers higher education. Alvito is a town with a rich history and culture. Its strategic location near the border with Spain makes it an ideal place to live for those who appreciate the beauty of Portugal and the convenience of being close to another country.