Welcome To
Castle of Óbidos
About Obidos
Perched on a hill in the Oeste region of Portugal , Óbidos is surrounded by an old fortified rampart.
The name Óbidos probably derives from the Latin term oppidum , which means “citadel”, or “fortified city”. The Romans lived there until the 5th century before abandoning the city following the fall of Rome.
In the 8th century, the Moors established a fortification at the top of the hill. The latter was taken over by the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques (Alphonse I of Portugal), in 1148 and it was modified in the 14th century.
Discover the best tips and places to visit in portugal!
01
Immersive View
Besides the wall, the magnificent medieval castle and the historic center of Obidos are the main attraction of the city and can be easily visited on foot. The maze of narrow cobbled streets will lead you to bustling squares, cozy cafes, quaint shops, local craft markets, and everywhere you will see the whitewashed houses decorated with flowers and beautiful colorful paintings. A street not to be missed: Rua Direita .
02
Santa Maria and São Pedro
Elegant old churches such as those of Santa Maria and São Pedro are adorned with hand-painted tiles ( azulejos ), ceilings and walls, to the delight of the eyes.
Castelo de Obidos
Location
Address: R. Josefa de Óbidos, 2510-001 Óbidos, Portugal
Castelo de Obidos
How to visit?
In the Historical Center of Óbidos you may visit several Monuments, as Churches, Museums (those ones are closed on mondays).
The «Castle of Óbidos» is not open for visiting, since it was transformed into a Historical «Pousada» in the 50s, and is still functioning as a Hotel Unit.
The only areas visitable are the Garden/Terrace, Belvedere located in front of the “Pousada” entrance, the Walls, the “Cerca” courtyard behind the Castle (when no events are being held).
The access to these areas is free (exception mentioned above) and of course the Town and Monuments.
Concerning the Wall, it has a perimeter of 1565 meters, that can be easily done, of course caution is always required once there is no protection barrier and not suitable for small children.
Medieval Festival
Medieval Festival of Obidos
Every July, Óbidos steps back in time with its annual Medieval Festival (the Medieval Market ), which features a costumed parade, jugglers, troubadours, jousting knights, and other performances (fire-eaters…), as well as a craft market showcasing medieval wares and food like spit-roasted meat, savory sausages, soup and beer served in pewter mugs.