Vila Viçosa: Guided Marble Art and Archaeology Tour
ID: GYG391511-710093
Category:
Country: Spain
Duration:
03:00 hours
Description
Embark on this journey to the world of Alentejo marble and marvel at the mix of nature, architecture, and marble. Be dazzled by fabulous marble buildings, art, and marble extraction.
Start the tour in the center of Vila Viçosa, the Portuguese Marble Capital. It's one of the most stunning villages in the country and marble can be found everywhere.
Join a local guide who will introduce you to the entire marble industry: from the ground selection strategies to a variety of the final art pieces. Learn why there is such an unforgettable and unique landscape totally shaped by the opening of the marble quarries through the centuries.
Then, visit a quarry and see the marble extraction taking place and notice how dangerous it is. Because the marble isn't ready to be applied right after the extraction, you can also expect a visit to one of many factories where the marble will get the final shape before being sent to the market.
You will also visit an artisan workshop to watch the handmade shaping of the marble.
The different colors of Portugueses marble have been appreciated since the Romans were the rulers of the Iberian Peninsula, and since then the Alentejo marble was used and exported to the whole world mainly from the quarries of this small but cozy town.
Highlights
- Travel to the centre of the Portuguese marble world
- Learn about the history of marble extraction, it's quarries, sawmills, and artisan workshops
- Enjoy the outstanding landscape of Alentejo
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Look for the "Rota do Mármore AE" logo alongside "CECHAP" logo.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
