Visiting this ancient walled village of Óbidos, with its distinctive white houses trimmed with touches of blue or ochre, is to make a journey back in time.
Long associated with the Kings and Queens of Portugal, in 1221 Óbidos was the royal wedding gift of D. Afonso II to D. Urraca, a tradition which was continued when it was also the gift, in 1281, of D. Dinis to the Queen Santa Isabel. In 1441 D. Afonso V married D. Isabel in the church of Santa Maria, the town’s main church.
During the seventeenth century, the town was home to the painter, Josefa de Óbidos, who was remarkably successful for a woman of her time, receiving many important commissions. A few remaining examples of her work can be seen today in a museum next to the main church.
Óbidos is recognised as an important national treasure and care has been taken to restore and preserve its ancient walls and monuments, whilst the castle now serves as a charming Pousada Hotel.
Long associated with the Kings and Queens of Portugal, in 1221 Óbidos was the royal wedding gift of D. Afonso II to D. Urraca, a tradition which was continued when it was also the gift, in 1281, of D. Dinis to the Queen Santa Isabel. In 1441 D. Afonso V married D. Isabel in the church of Santa Maria, the town’s main church.
During the seventeenth century, the town was home to the painter, Josefa de Óbidos, who was remarkably successful for a woman of her time, receiving many important commissions. A few remaining examples of her work can be seen today in a museum next to the main church.
Óbidos is recognised as an important national treasure and care has been taken to restore and preserve its ancient walls and monuments, whilst the castle now serves as a charming Pousada Hotel.
