When the 13th-century Portuguese Queen Isabel passed through Óbidos and marveled at its beauty, her husband King Denis I, gave it to her. For centuries after, the kings of Portugal followed suit, presenting the town to their queens as a wedding gift.
===================================================================(on the Atlantic Ocean coast, where the municipality of Obidos is bounded in the northeast and east by Caldas da Rainha, in the south by Bombarral, in the southwest by Lourinhã and in the west by Peniche) With its buildings shining as brightly now as then, the walled-in town and municipality of Óbidos is quite popular with tourists -- its hillside location offers amazing views of the Estremadura area. Shown here, is the medieval castle and wall of Óbidos, a main attraction (viewed from the west of the town in the Oeste region, a historical province of Estremadura, and the Leiria district). Surrounded by a classic crenellated wall, Óbidos’ gorgeous historic center is a labyrinth of cobblestoned streets and flower-bedecked, whitewashed houses that are enlivened with dashes of vivid yellow and blue paint. It is a delightful place to pass an afternoon -- but there are plenty of reasons to stay overnight, as there is excellent accommodation here, including the hilltop castle, which is now converted into one of Portugal’s most luxurious pousadas (hotels).
+ The area of the town of Óbidos is located on a hilltop, still encircled by its fortified wall. Obidos remains a well-preserved example of medieval architecture; its streets, squares, walls and its castle, are quite popular tourist destinations. The municipality is also home to the famous Praia D'el Rey golf complex, one of the top golf resorts in Europe, and Royal Óbidos (a Spa & Golf.
+ Each July Óbidos castle hosts a traditional "Medieval Market." For two weeks the castle and the town recreate the spirit of medieval Europe. Flowing banners and heraldic flags set the mood together with hundreds of entertainers and stall holders dressed as merchants, jugglers, jesters, wandering minstrels, soldiers and more. Visitors can shop at the traditional handcrafts fair or watch medieval shows, horse displays, and a costumed parade that winds its way through the streets. There are also displays of jousting knights and armed combat.
Spit roasted hog, hearty soups, rabbit, lamb, cod, quail, sausages, and other grilled meats are just some of the many medieval style meals on offer from dozens of "taverns" and stalls spread throughout the market. (Drinking from pewter tankards and eating from wooden trencher all adds to the experience.)
+ If you are looking for a fairy-tale destination in Portugal, look no further than Óbidos, a charming medieval village surrounded by ancient walls. Óbidos is a treasure trove of history, culture, and art, where you can explore the cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and colorful flowers that adorn the village. You can also visit the impressive castle, which dates back to the 12th century and was once a royal residence.
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