Castelo de Vide

Castelo de Vide sits on a hill in the north of the Alentejo, its castle and walls rising above white houses and narrow streets. It is known for its medieval Jewish quarter, one of the best preserved in Portugal, and for the spa waters that have drawn visitors since the nineteenth century.

History and identity

The town grew up around its castle in the thirteenth century, on the frontier with Spain, and became an important centre in the Middle Ages. Its Jewish community lived in a quarter of narrow streets that has survived almost intact, and the town later became known as a spa resort.

What to see and do

• The castle and the walls, with views over the Alentejo.
• The medieval Jewish quarter and its synagogue.
• The historic centre, with its white houses and old churches.
• The spa and the gardens of the town.

Gastronomy and traditions

The town keeps the traditions of the northern Alentejo, with local olive oil, cheeses and sweets. Its festivals and fairs are part of the calendar of the region.

Visiting Castelo de Vide

Castelo de Vide is in the district of Portalegre, in the Alentejo, reached by road. For the castle, synagogue and spa, check the official website before your visit.

Visitor information: cm-castelodevide.pt.

Image credit: Castelo de Vide, Portugal, by Vitor Oliveira, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Het Marvão, on its rock above the border, is a short drive away.