Best Things to Do in Obidos: Unique Activities for Your Visit

Explore historical Obidos and the surroundings to create your own unique and unforgettable experience.

Intro

The castle stands on a hill in the village of Obidos in the district of Leiria. This cozy corner of eastern Portugal welcomes visitors with snow-white houses, narrow streets, and lush greenery in the gardens.

 

The city is a perfect backdrop for the small, cozy cafes and souvenir shops. Make your visit to Obidos unique by visiting the following spots with our expert recommendations on the most exciting activities.

Historical Attractions of Obidos

You may create your impression of the city within one day. Obidos seems to be a city in the cartoon, but it's real. Once upon a time, the fortress was a trading port, and the sea raged near the walls of the castle. Over time, the water receded, and the settlement remained in place. Today, everyone can walk along the streets of the old city, looking at the sights.

Main Gate (Porta da Vila)

Porta da Vila was the main entrance to Obidos from 1380. From here, the city’s main street begins, with many souvenir shops and private art galleries. This gate has a small chapel with a balcony decorated from the inside with tiles from the 18th century.

 

It depicts the Passion of Christ, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful detail. A separate attraction is the beautiful painted ceiling of the gate and its double doors, which can be seen in most medieval Portuguese castles.

Pelourinho

When passing through Obidos, it is essential to investigate the stone column, a symbol of municipal power, a Pelourinho. The monument was built at the beginning of the 16th century. Nowadays, this symbol of municipal power is open to visitors.

 

The monument presents the royal weapons and the shrimp boat, a symbol of Queen D. Leonor. It is above the fountain in Praca de Santa Maria. Before the square's renovation, it was supposed to be in front of the Town Hall, formerly next to the Church of Santa Maria.

Aqueduct

D. Catarina de Austria, the wife of D. Joao III, paid to construct the three km-long aqueducts that supplied the town with water from the neighboring parish of Usseira.

 

The object was strategically important and consisted of many arches over the lush vineyards and orchards. The city’s fountains were filled this way. The residents of the city had access to fresh water, and the entire city could live an everyday life with the use of technology.

 

Today, it is a bright architectural object that looks impressive and will not leave anyone indifferent.

Encosta do Mocharro

The origins of this place, located on the slope, need to be recovered on time. According to the legend, there was a Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter. Additionally, there are a few tombstones with Roman inscriptions in this church. 

 

It was the seat of the parish of Sao Joao Batista (do Mocharro). In 1636, it was transferred to the south entrance of the village to the old chapel of Sao Vicente dos Gafos. 

 

The great earthquake that took place here in 1755 damaged the monument. While you're here, don't miss the medieval bell tower, which is also very reminiscent of ancient architecture.

Religious Experience of Obidos

There are many churches in Obidos that are well preserved to this day. Most of them are open to visitors. Even if you are not a religious person, you should go and enjoy both the interior and exterior.

Sta. Maria Church

Thus, the church, with a rich and ancient history dating back to the 8th century, is the main one in the city. At one point in its history, it even served as a mosque.

 

The design is elegant and tender. Carved Corinthian columns are among the specific features. Additionally, the sculptures of the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels should be noted. However, most visitors are impressed by the ornate wooden ceilings and paintings dating back to the 17th century.

 

Here is the tomb of Joao de Noronha, a famous and respected figure in Portugal. He was a church pastor who died in 1575. The tomb is a work of art with complex architecture, small columns, and bas-reliefs on religious themes.

S. Pedro Church

This Gothic three-aisled basilica with a porch, staircase and main entrance was built in the 13th and 14th centuries and served as the headquarters of the College of San Pietro.

 

An earthquake destroyed the basilica in 1775. Only the gilded high altar with the throne (1690-1705) and the bell tower with a stone spiral staircase survived. The church was later restored. Inside, note the magnificent altarpiece depicting San Pietro by the artist João da Costa.

 

The artist Josefa of Obidos and the preacher Blessed Rafael Silveira Malhao are buried here in the Church of San Pietro.

Santiago Church

The Church of Santiago was built in 1186. The project in Gothic style was designed by King Sancho I. The church is located right at the entrance to the Obidos Castle and was previously used by the royal family for religious services when they were in Obidos.

 

However, the devastating earthquake of 1755 did not spare this church either. After some time, the church was restored and then completely rebuilt.

 

Today, the building houses a bookstore. The remaining valuables were transferred to the Municipal Museum of Obidos.

Cultural Attractions of Obidos

There are several large museums in Obidos. If you have enough time to delve into the city's history, you should visit one or more of them.

Museu Municipal de Obidos

The museum was opened in 1970 with the support of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. The 16th-century building previously housed the city's court and prison. 

 

The museum's collection includes religious art, unique sculptures, and paintings. It also features an amazing and valuable collection of French and English weapons from the Napoleonic era and baroque interior items. Visitors will also be interested in seeing Romanesque items found during excavations and various architectural fragments.

Museu Abilio de Mattos e Silva

The museum was created by the goodwill of Maria Jose Salavisa, his wife, after his death. The man was a famous painter and costume designer, born in Sardoal in 1908 and died in 1985. 

 

Even though he was not a local in Obidos, this land and its surroundings were his favorite. He spent his youth here and maintained a residence. Despite having shown himself to be a promising artist in the visual arts, he ended up dedicating himself to a creative activity full of great vitality linked to theater and opera.

Wind and Kite Surfing

At first glance, Obidos will only suit lovers of cultural and historical heritage. However, this is not the issue, and you can also find a wide range of active sports here.

Lagoa de Obidos and Foz do Arelho

The beach is very popular among families with children. It is naturally shallow, and the water warms up well, so you can comfortably spend the whole day there. During high tide, the beach has stunning views.

The lagoon is the highlight of the beach and an excellent place for water sports. This beach is calm compared to Foz on the opposite side. It is popular for surfing and kite surfing on all levels.

Despite its popularity, the beach is always relatively peaceful.

Culinary experience of Obidos

If you come to Obidos for the whole day, you should visit the local cafes and restaurants. The regional cuisine is similar to the cuisine of Portugal. However, several establishments are trendy among guests and residents of the city.

O Melro

O Melro is a place in the historical part of the city. It provides a cozy atmosphere, combined with the authentic Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant is exceptionally charming. The chef carefully created all the dishes using fresh local ingredients. A traditional seafood plate is a must-try dish. The dinner here guarantees a delightful experience. No big surprise that locals recommend it.

 

Location: Rua da Porta da Vila, 2510-070 Obidos, Portugal

Domus Restaurant

The place is not only about excellent food but also about the historical background in the center of Obidos. The menu was created based on traditional Portuguese flavors but with a modern interpretation. The focus of attention here is the creative presentation, combined with high-quality ingredients for a memorable meal in the heart of the medieval town.

 

Location: Rua Direita 86, 2510-001 Obidos, Portugal

A Nova Casa de Ramiro

The restaurant is an elegant, sophisticated place with a traditional menu based on Portugal's rich gastronomic heritage. Locals choose it for special occasions. The dishes are expertly prepared and matched with a wide selection of wines, so don't hesitate to ask the water for the perfect pairing.

 

Location: Travessa do Facho 45, 2510-039 Obidos, Portugal

Madok

Madok is a Portuguese cuisine restaurant with a modern gastronomic influence. The chic decor attracts visitors who want to try new flavors and enjoy an unusual interior. The dishes served here are aesthetically pleasant as the chef emphasizes using unusual seasonal ingredients.

 

Location: Rua Josefa de Obidos 3, 2510-001 Obidos, Portugal

Ja!mon Ja!mon

The restaurant specializes in Spanish tapas and Portuguese traditions. It is popular among large groups of friends or families. The menu reflects the Iberian Peninsula's taste, including various meats and cheeses.

 

Location: Rua Dom Joao de Ornelas 8, 2510-074 Obidos, Portugal

Toca do Coelho

This family-run restaurant creates a warm and inviting environment. You can spend time here, enjoy the rustic interior, and receive attentive service. Local products are used on the menu, providing a truly authentic experience. Don't miss your chance to try hearty stew or freshly grilled fish.

 

Location: Rua da Porta da Vila 16, 2510-070 Obidos, Portugal

 

Summarize

Visiting Obidos is a great idea for a day or a whole weekend. This town may seem more interesting from the point of view of architecture and its ancient history. However, if you have a little more free time, you can see that there are many more available activities.

 

To see all the main attractions of Obidos in one day, it is better to go on an organized tour with an experienced guide. He can tell you the facts that you will not read in any book.

 

Obidos is a destination suitable even for a long-term stay because, in the warm season, you can enjoy a fairly warm ocean, unlike the main coast of Portugal. But even in winter, there are activities to do here. 

 

Many cafes and restaurants with authentic local cuisine will give you unforgettable culinary pleasure.