Obidos | Medieval History and Interesting Facts
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Obidos is a kind of fairy tale city, where every corner is imbued with the atmosphere of the distant past. Passing through the fortress’s main gate, you are immersed in the magical world of the Middle Ages. Narrow streets, snow-white houses, and ancient churches create the unique character of the city. The defensive castle rises here, and its ancient walls offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
The history of Obidos is filled with love and romantic: many monarchs gave it as a gift to their loved ones, making the city a honeymoon destination. On the other hand, the history of Obidos is closely connected with the influence of the royal family on its development. Today, this city is still popular among honeymooners and tourists, possessing a unique atmosphere and historical heritage. Let’s consider a more detailed history of this city.
The History of Obidos
Obidos Portugal is a unique city with a rich history, architectural monuments, enchanting sights, and beautiful landscapes. The history of Obidos, one of the most ancient territories of Portugal, is full of events and moments.
During the time of the Visigoths in Portugal, long before the arrival of the Romans on the Iberian Peninsula, Obidos had a strategic importance, located on a high cliff off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. From the moment the royal family chose it for themselves, the city began to flourish. In the 13th century, King Dinis gave Obidos to his wife Elizabeth of Aragon, and since then he has maintained the independence of the royal dynasty. This is the church of the church in the city, as they were an important part of its development and history.
Obidos castle is surrounded by fortress walls, distinguished by its characteristic labyrinth of narrow streets and whitewashed houses. Here you located the Manueline portals, decorated with colorful windows and cozy areas.
Obidos is also famous for its beaches. The Royal Beach, Praia d’El Rey, is an ideal place for playing golf overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Near the town is Foz do Arelho Beach, which connects the Obidos Lagoon to the sea, where you can enjoy fresh fish and sunset by the sea. Obidos is not just a city, it is a living page of Portuguese history, full of amazing architectural monuments and beautiful landscapes.
Interesting Facts About Obidos
Obidos is a small town in Portugal, which is fraught with many interesting secrets and facts. Let’s look at the historical facts about this beautiful place.
- In 1282, King Dinis married Isabella of Aragon. On the wedding day, he gave her a gift – the city of Obidos. Since then, the Portuguese kings had a tradition of giving Obidos to their brides. This continued until 1755 when an earthquake caused significant damage to the city. The fortress walls were damaged, and the central building of the castle completely collapsed.
- Medieval fairs and various festivals are held annually in Obidos. In November there is an amazing chocolate festival, during which an international chocolate competition is held, in which experts participate. The festival program includes concerts, fashion shows, and dance shows. Here you can eat your fill of delicious chocolate.
- The medieval fairs held in July are very popular among tourists. During them, residents for some time become medieval townspeople. They wear clothes and shoes appropriate to the past. At the fair, you can only buy something with medieval coins, which can be purchased at the city gates.
- Obidos Castle. Obidos Castle is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and was used as the residence of Portuguese kings since the 12th century.
- Beautiful nature. Obidos is located in a picturesque location on the ocean and is surrounded by stunning nature, making it a popular tourist destination for lovers of outdoor activities and excursions.
What to See in Obidos
One of the oldest cities in Portugal, Óbidos has many attractions to visit during your stay.
- Obidos castle is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and has served as the favorite residence of Portuguese kings since the 12th century. Today the castle is open to tourists and visiting is free. Portugal group tours often include a visit to a pousada of Obidos to experience its rich history and architecture.
- The memorial cross was erected in the 16th century to commemorate the victory of Afonso Henriques over the Moors who occupied Portuguese territories. This monument commemorates important events in the history of Obidos and Portugal in general.
- Obidos city walls, built at the end of the 14th century, are another interesting architectural object. The gate is decorated with panels of azulejos, and clay tiles with traditional Portuguese paintings on biblical themes.
- Santa Maria church Obidos, a monument from the early 14th century, now operates as a museum for the parish of Obidos and offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn more about the religious history and culture of the region.
- Musical theater Casa da Música. In addition to these attractions, in Óbidos you can also visit the musical theater Casa da Música, where the preparatory meeting of the Captains’ Movement that led to the Carnation Revolution took place in 1973.
These and other places make Obidos attractive to tourists who want to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Portugal with Portugal group tours.
