While Portugal's big cities get the spotlight, romantic medieval towns obidos Located in the center of Portugal, just an hour’s drive from Lisbon, it’s well worth a visit. obidosKnown as the “Wedding Gift Town”, this town was a gift from King Dinis to Queen Isabel on her wedding day in 1282, when she expressed her love for the place. Cobbled streets, brightly painted white houses and the striking medieval castle transport you into the magical surroundings of this ancient walled city. Despite its small size, Óbidos has numerous features, features and attractions that make it a great place to spend some time. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy your visit.
Stroll the country streets
Stroll through the narrow cobbled village streets and experience the fairy tale character of Óbidos. In the back streets, you'll see traditional houses painted white to keep out the hot summer sun. Brightly colored flowers such as bougainvillea and geraniums adorn doorways and window sills, contrasting with yellow or blue architectural decorations (the colors of the royal coat of arms). Stroll along Rua Diretta, the main street that runs through town, and explore shops, restaurants, and more.
Óbidos Castle
A traditional stone-walled medieval castle on a hill, Óbidos Castle It's been around since Moore's time. Today the castle dates back to the reign of King Dinis and has been named one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. In the 1950s, it was transformed into an upscale hotel. The medieval structure of the castle is extremely well preserved. You can even walk along the stone walls and enjoy views of the village as it would have been during the royal reign.
Explore the city of literature
Óbidos is a UNESCO City of Literaturea rare honor that recognizes the quantity, quality and diversity of a city’s literary achievements and pursuits. Books have become integrated into every aspect of life in libraries, museums, galleries, homes, public spaces and markets. Although Óbidos has just over 3,000 inhabitants, its population exceeds 500,000. It’s fun to explore all the places where books are impossible to find. Livraria de Santiago is located in an ancient church. Livraria da Adega is a bookstore converted from a wine cellar. Even the Óbidos post office is filled with books for sale. Literary celebrations held in Óbidos folioThe annual international literary festival brings together readers, writers, artists and musicians from all over the world.
Óbidos City Museum
This museum houses an interesting collection of art from the 16th centuryth Throughout the 18th century, it was created by Mannerist artists such as Diogo Texeira and Belchior de Matos. It also houses a collection of sacred art, including works by the Queen's favorite Spanish Baroque painter Josefa de Obidos. Peninsular War exhibits include French and British weapons, as well as architectural fragments and artifacts from the excavated Roman city of Eurobrittium.
St. Mary's Church and Square
When King Alfonso Henriques recaptured Óbidos from the Moors, he built a church in the main square. Although much of it was destroyed over the years, the structure has been rebuilt and the interior is covered with beautiful tiles. St. Mary's Church It is the main church of Óbidos. Additionally, take time to explore the square, which was used to humiliate and punish criminals in the 15th century.th century. It is decorated with the image of a net in memory of the fishermen who rescued Queen Leonor's son near the Tagus River.
enjoy the festival
Óbidos hosts many wonderful festivals and markets. See what to expect before coming.
medieval market
Given the strong medieval character of this walled city, Óbidos is an ideal place to host medieval markets and fairs. This annual event runs from mid-July to early August. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time to the Middle Ages, surrounded by colorful banners and flags, costumed market-goers, wandering minstrels, clowns, dancers and other entertainers. Many stalls sell food, crafts, clothing, accessories, period art and novelty items. Other highlights include jousting reenactments and medieval feasts. Visitors are encouraged to dress up and be part of the festivities.
Óbidos International Chocolate Festival
For chocolate lovers, there’s no better event than Chocolate Festival Obido International Chocolate Festivalevery spring. Each year has a theme (animal kingdom, music, love and climate change are already past themes). Sweet tooth lovers come together to taste, make and see chocolate in all its glory. Chocolate artists create sculptures, and visitors can enjoy live entertainment, demonstrations, tastings, workshops and displays. Chocolate vendors sell a variety of products. You'll need to get your tickets early to attend this popular celebration.
where to eat
Just like the rest of Portugal, Óbidos has many wonderful places and local specialties to try. If you see something that looks good, give it a try! Here are some other suggestions.
Pousada do Castelo's restaurant
Óbidos Lagoon is rich in fresh seafood. Clams are a delicacy caught fresh every day by local fishermen. try it Castle Hotel Restaurant. Prepared “Bolhao Pato” style, with plenty of fresh garlic, white wine, fresh lemon, coriander, salt and pepper in olive oil, the baby clams are melt-in-your-mouth tender and delicious. Dining in the historic Óbidos Castle also sets the stage for a most unforgettable meal.
Baal ibn Eric Rex
As you explore the main street, Rua Direita, you'll want to stop at a quirky tavern called “Rua Direita” Baal ibn Eric Rex. Try Ginja, a sweet liqueur made from locally grown cherries, usually served in a shot glass, or often in a small chocolate cup, which you can enjoy after your drink. There's only one option on the menu at Bar Ibn Errik Rex – linguica sausage flame-grilled at the table, paired with Azorean cheese and homemade bread. Coupled with the quirky decor, there's plenty to enjoy.
There are also many bars, restaurants and shops selling ginja, chocolate and snacks such as cheese, olives and bread. Stop at any spot that appeals to you and eat your obidos slowly. To sample traditional baked goods from a family-owned bakery that's been in business since the 1800s, visit carpinha de obidos.
where to shop
Most of the shopping in Óbidos is on or around the main street, Rua Direita. You can take your pick of souvenir shops, art galleries, unique boutiques, and more. Some of the more interesting shops are unexpected. Glazing Flower House Beautiful handmade Portuguese tiles for sale. Door 85 is an interesting souvenir shop selling a variety of unusual items, home decorations and local gifts. For a unique experience, head to the Mercado Biológico de Óbidos, which has a shop library filled with books and sells organic produce. There are also many Ginja shops along the way where you can try to buy your favorite items.
Where to stay
Accommodation options in Óbidos are diverse. Here are some of our favorites.
Literati Hotel
In line with this city’s love for literature, Literati Hotel It's an excellent accommodation choice. There are more than 40,000 books in the hotel's bookstore, library and throughout the hotel. Many books are written in English, so you can sit back in a comfortable chair or sofa, relax in a quiet corner and enjoy reading whatever interests you. They have several bars and a great restaurant as well as lovely and spacious rooms. You can easily take the time to relax and unwind in an environment that encourages you to truly enjoy your vacation.
Castle Hotel Óbidos
this Castle Hotel Óbidos This famous castle has been redesigned into an upscale hotel. Listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, the Pousada Hotel is both impressive and romantic. There is a great restaurant and the charming Castelo Bar. You can choose to enjoy medieval accommodation within the castle, or at the Casa do Castelo next to the castle, which feels more like staying in a country home.
Enjoy your visit to this fairy tale town
It was this small town that made me fall in love with Portugal. It's quaint and lovely, but to make the most of it, visit Óbidos in spring or fall to avoid the crowds of summer tourists. You can best appreciate the magic of this village when you own it. Stay for at least one night and enjoy the medieval atmosphere, maze of cobbled streets, delicious food and, of course, a few more ginjas.
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