Situated 61 miles north of Lisbon and nestled between undulating hills and expansive vineyards, Óbidos offers an insight into a quaint Portuguese town and the lives of its people. Cobblestone streets are a charming feature, as is the whitewashed houses with terraces full of colourful flowers and local crafts that fill the town’s shops and markets.
Óbidos was once controlled by Moors but fell under Christian rule when it was conquered by D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, in 1148. Its medieval walls still stand to this day, and can be followed by visitors to get a superb view of the town from every angle. Within these walls lies a treasure trove of narrow streets, old churches, tiny shops and a couple of museums. The best thing to do here is simply walk around and marvel at the architecture and wonderful ambiance of Óbidos.
Typical street - Óbidos, photo by José Manuel
The Porta da Vila is the statuesque southern town gate that is decorated with 18th century tiles. The castle itself is a spectacle to be marveled at and is an impressive display of the work that king Dinis I commissioned during his reign over Portugal during the 13th and 14th centuries. As with many of the central Portuguese towns there are a plethora of churches that must be visited. Do not miss the lovely Capela de São Martinho, or the Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria.
If this town was not unique and wondrous enough, the International Chocolate festival is held here every November, and there is a Holy Week Festival that draws people here from all over Portugal and the world. Those visiting must also ensure they try some of the wine that is famed from this region, or the local cherry liquor known as ginjinha.
More information: visitportugal.com
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