Mertola is picturesquely set on the slopes above the left bank of the Guadana, joined here by its tributary the Oreias, about 70km/43mi northwest of the coastal border town of Vila Real de Santo Antonio.
In Roman times the site was occupied by the town of Mirtilis, mentioned by the Alexandrian geographer Ptolemy (second C. A.D.), which later had to give way to a Moorish stronghold.
With its narrow and twisting alleys Mertola is still rather Moorish in appearance. From the main square its narrow streets, lined with little white houses, lead uphill to the parish church and then on up to the castle.
Getting there
Scenic drive to Alcoutim by the river Guadiana. There after continue up to Mertola (not on Mondays as museums closed)
