Évora - Roman Temple

(Local Name: Templo Romano) Opposite the Museu de Évora entrance is what has become the symbol of Évora, its Roman temple. Dating from the A.D. second or third century, it is one of the best preserved Roman structures in Portugal and is popularly known as the Temple of Diana, although it is not clear to which deity it was actually dedicated. On the 3m/10ft high base, which is almost completely preserved, there still stand 14 of the original 18 Corinthian columns, with part of the architrave. During the Middle Ages the temple was converted into a fortress, and later served for many years as a slaughterhouse, a use which ultimately saved it from demolition.

Since 1986 fresh archeological digs and