Hotel Pousada Nossa Senhora da Assuncao is a new addition within a16th century monastery combining traditional and modern architecture in a sympathetic manner. The nearby town of Arraiolos is renowned worldwide for its magnificent hand woven carpets originally based on Persian designs. The Arraiolos carpets are more colourful and primitive in style and can be purchased at numerous outlets in the town. To see some of the originals visit the town hall or take a trip to Pelegrejinha 10 km to the east where there is a permanent exhibition in the Casa de Artes. Overlooked by the ruins of a once impressive 14th century castle the little white washed town of Arraiolos has a 16th century Misericordia containing some excellent examples of azulejos tiles. * The hotel is closed for renovation works from the 05th November 2012 until the 31st March 2013. This impressive fortified town is known as the Portuguese capital of the Renaissance