Obidos is located in the district of Beja and belongs to the Province of Alentejo. It is a city that has preserved its ancient monuments and buildings, giving it an almost medieval feel. The city was known as a commercial center between the 12th-18 final century BC. Although there have been some invasions, such as Moors in the 11th century, Romans in the 1st century AD and finally Vikings in the 8th century AD, the city remained mostly intact. This is evident from its architecture which accentuates different elements from different historical periods and cultures. Apart from preserving its ancient heritage, Obidos has also developed new tourist attractions such as restaurants, hotels and other accommodations.
What to see in City of Obidos
– The City of Obidos –
The city of Obidos is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was known as a commercial center between the 12th-14th centuries. It is believed that the city was first founded as a Phoenician colony by the name of Obidos. The city was later taken over by the Romans and re-developed as a commercial and administrative center. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths ruled the area till the 8th century.
– The Monastery of Saint Pedro –
The ancient city of Obidos has preserved a few ruins from the Middle Ages. However, one of the main sights of the city is the Monastery of Saint Pedro. The monastery was built in the 9th century and later reconstructed in the 12th century by the Moors. The architecture of the building is heavily influenced by the Phoenician and Roman styles. The monastery is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
– The Castle of Monsanto –
The old medieval town of Obidos has many examples of medieval architecture. The Castle of Monsanto is one of them. The castle is believed to be built during the Moorish period by the order of the King Sancho I. The castle has preserved many elements from the 12th century, such as the structure, the moat and the walls.
Where to stay in City of Obidos
– Hotel Loja –
The Hotel Loja is one of the most popular hotels in Obidos. It was built in the 12th century and is now a comfortable hotel with modern facilities. The hotel has become a landmark of the city, with a beautiful exterior and interior. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves Portuguese and International cuisines.
– Hotel Pinhao –
The Hotel Pinhao is a modern hotel located in the city center. The hotel has pieces of art inspired by the history of the city. The hotel has an elegant yet cosy interior, with wooden floors and exotic plants. The hotel has a restaurant where the chefs prepare healthy and delicious meals with fresh ingredients.
Eating guide in City of Obidos
– Portuguese Food –
Portuguese food has a long history. The Moors and Romans created a lot of dishes that were later adopted by the Portuguese. The cuisine of Portugal has a lot of influences from other cultures, especially Asian. There are many types of Portuguese food such as seafood, chicken, pork, beans, potatoes, salads and many more.
– Local Food –
There are many local dishes in the city of Obidos. Some of the important ones are Arroz do Concelho, Arroz do Bacalhau, Frango ao Xiqueiro, Frango ao Xico and more. All these dishes are specialties of the city of Obidos.
Shops in City of Obidos
– Mercado Municipal –
The traditional market in the city is called Mercado Municipal. The market has been in operation for the last 500 years. The market has preserved its original architecture from the 12th-18th century. The market offers vegetables, fish, meat and other items. The market also has many souvenirs, handicrafts and local products.
– Santo Cristo –
The Church of Santo Cristo is one of the main churches of the city. The church was built in the 16th century and was renovated in the 20th century. The façade of the church is heavily influenced by Islamic architecture. The interior of the church is decorated with many paintings, which depict scenes from the life of Christ.
– Convento de São Bento –
The Convento de São Bento is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The building has been continually used for centuries, from the 12th-18th centuries. The architecture of the building is heavily influenced by Islamic style. The building is now a museum that exhibits artifacts from the city of Obidos.
– Museu de Arte –
The Museu de Arte is a modern museum that exhibits artworks from the 16th-20th centuries. The museum has a beautiful modern architecture, which is a combination of Portuguese and International styles. The museum also has many sculptures and paintings that depict Portuguese and International artists and themes.
Final Words
Obidos is a city that has preserved its ancient monuments and buildings, giving it an almost medieval feel. The city was known as a commercial center between the 12th-18th century. Although there have been some invasions, such as Moors in the 11th century, Romans in the 1st century AD and finally Vikings in the 8th century AD, the city remained mostly intact. This is evident from its architecture which accents different elements from different historical periods and cultures. Apart from preserving its ancient heritage, Obidos has also developed new tourist attractions such as restaurants, hotels and other accommodations. Obidos is a city that has preserved its ancient monuments and buildings, giving it an almost medieval feel. The city was known as a commercial center between the 12th-18th century. Although there have been some invasions, such as Moors in the 11th century, Romans in the 1st century AD and finally Vikings in the 8th century AD, the city remained mostly intact. This is evident from its architecture which accents different elements from different historical periods and cultures. Apart from preserving its ancient heritage, Obidos has also developed new tourist attractions such as restaurants, hotels and other accommodations.
