Óbidos is an idyllic medieval hilltop village situated in LIera to the north of Lisbon. Founded by the Moors in the eighth century, Óbidos came under Portuguese rule in 1148 by Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. His grandson, Alfonso II, gave the town deed to his queen and, subsequently, Óbidos enjoyed the patronage of several medieval queens. The walls were expanded and the keep was built during this period.
Despite damage from the catastrophic earthquake of 1755, Óbidos is home to some remnants of Moorish architecture, beautiful azulejos (hand-painted tiles), and white-washed dwellings trimmed in vibrant blue and yellow. Bougainvillea erupts from every crack in the pavement and orange trees adorn every yard. The homes of the 3,100 residents can be viewed from the medieival wall walk with another 8,500 inhabitants spread in the plain below.
Óbidos is known for its books - rows of them can be found for sale in nearly every establishment. The town also hosts the an annual literacy festival along with a medieval festival in the summer and a chocolate festival in the spring.
The castle is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portgual. Today, it is a part of Portugal's pousada scheme, a collection of hotels that are state-owned historically significant buildings throughout Portugal. Many castles have been converted into pousadas and offer a luxury stay.
Where ever you choose to stay, Óbidos is best enjoyed in the evenings when daytrippers from Lisboa thin out and sunsets illuminate the valley.
Peniche
The famous surf town of Peniche is thirty minutes from Óbidos boasting beautiful beaches, world class surfing, a quaint old-town, and outstanding fishing. Explore the incredible 80-foot cliffs at Cabo da Roca, the western most point in mainland Portugal. The ecclectic Museu Municipal de Peniche is housed inside the 16th century fortaleza. Collections include the preserved cells of anti-fascist politcal prisoners, neolithic artifacts, and an overview of the town's fishing heritage. Nearby, the village of Baleal splits two beautiful beaches and offers surf school.
Lagoa de Óbidos
To the northwest of Óbidos is a massive lagoon. Its exit to the Atlantic is capped by the small village Foz do Arelho. The brackish waters of the lagoon are warm and tranquil, idyllic for young families while the Atlantic coast continues to offer excellent, but chilly, surfing. The fishing industry is alive and well - don't miss trying the local mussels when you visit.
Bacalhôa Buddha Eden
The Bacalhôa Buddha Eden was conceived by art collector and businessman, Joe Berardo, after the wanton destruction of buddhas in Afghanistan by the Taliban in 2001. It is dedicated to peace and tranquility and is for anyone regardless of race, religion, or gender.
The garden is the largest Asian garden in Europe and is filled with sculpture, both religious and secular, ancient and modern. It is enormous at 35 hectares with several water features and endless paths. Sculpture is reguarly rotated providing repeat visitors with new art. There is also a significant area dedicated to African art with over 200 peaces.
The garden is open daily (except Christmas and New Year's Day) from 9:30 to 6p. Its an economical day out - admission is only €5 for those 12 and older, children are free. For children and those with mobility issues, there is a train that runs through the park for €4. Its a relaxing way to see the gardens. The estate is tied to a winery - samples and products for sale in the giftshop alongside a pleasant restaurant.
Comentários