Home   /   Blog & News

Óbidos Castle

The Óbidos Castle dates back to the 12th century. At that time, Portuguese territories were still a contested area between Muslims and Christians.

The Óbidos Castle is one of Portugal’s most iconic monuments, renowned for its medieval architecture and historic atmosphere that preserves the charm of a fortified village. Situated atop a hill in the village of Óbidos, in the district of Leiria, this castle attracts thousands of visitors every year.

History and Architecture

Reconstructed over the centuries, the structure combines Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque styles. These styles reflect the various phases of expansion and restoration.

In the 13th century, the castle was given as a wedding gift by King Dinis to his wife, Queen Saint Isabel. This added to its symbolism as an icon of romance and Portuguese medieval history.

In 1951, the Óbidos Castle was declared a National Monument. More recently, it became the site of a boutique hotel, transformed into an inn that retains its original architecture. It offers a unique experience of staying within a historic fortification.

Walking along the walls provides stunning panoramic views of the village and the surrounding landscape. The walls lack protective barriers along their length, so caution is advised when walking in elevated areas.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Castle of Óbidos

  • Access and Parking: Óbidos is about 80 km from Lisbon and is easily accessible by car via the A8 motorway. However, the village has limited parking. We recommend leaving your car in nearby car parks close to the Village Gate, the main entrance, and exploring the village on foot.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather and less crowding compared to summer, when the village can become quite busy, especially during festivals.
  • Footwear and Clothing: The cobbled streets and stone steps require comfortable and slip-resistant footwear. In winter, temperatures can be cold and windy, so it’s wise to bring warm clothing.
  • Tickets and Accessibility: Entry to the village is free, but some activities, such as the medieval festival, require tickets. Visiting the castle may present accessibility challenges due to narrow staircases and inclines, especially on the walls.

Culinary Recommendations

For food lovers, Óbidos offers excellent restaurant options that serve traditional Portuguese dishes. Try “cozido à portuguesa” or “bacalhau” at one of the local taverns. Be sure to sample the “ginjinha de Óbidos”, one of the village’s symbols, in one of the establishments that serve it in the traditional chocolate cup.

Any questions? Get in touch with us.

By clicking Submit, you confirm your acceptance of the Privacy Policy.

Skip to content