Evora, monoliths, bones

Visited a site like Stonehenge, Almendes Cromlech, only 2000 years older, a few km from Evora with a wonderful guide, a young archeologist passionate about the treasures of the past his government is letting go to ruin. Nine of us — 4 Americans, 2 French Canadians, 1 Portuguese tourist, plus the guide and the driver, set out in a minibus to visit — and learn about — these ancient monoliths. Fascinating tour, excellent guide (Mario, 30, cute and so smart). We stopped at a few sites, all visually connected, having to do seasons, sun, moon, etc.

Tour took almost 3 and a half hours and was, so far, best thing we’ve done.

Incidentally, learned about cork oaks (see photo). Bark is removed once every nine years — starting only when the tree is about 50 years old — and then allowed to regrow. Like shearing sheep. Recently peeled tree trunks are bright red — and marked with number of year of last removal (number 1 indicates 2011, so tree will be left alone until 2020). Cool.

Back here in Evora, went out for lunch and to explore city. Verrrry hot again. Ate indoors in a huge cafeteria like place, mostly not for tourists, I think. Friendly waiter. Then wandered to church where there is a room made of human bones. Creeeeepy. And then to the Cathedral, quite impressive, where we stayed to hear part of a concert. No instruments but human voices. Beautiful acoustics. But, tired, came back here to our excellent hotel. I’m now sitting outdoors, on a patio, where the internet reception is good — and it’s cool and pretty. Rob’s resting up. Going to dinner nearby, getting hungry! Hoping the waiter doesn’t have a cold…

Am attaching some photos from yesterday’s ride along the coast, and a few from today. Including, you have to see it, the bones. 🙂