Castle Wall of the Medieval Village of Obidos

by David Letts

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Castle Wall of the Medieval Village of Obidos

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David Letts

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Founded by the Celts in 308 BC, Obidos was conquered by the Romans in the first century and occupied by the Moors in the eighth century. The latter built the town wall, which still today is completely intact surrounding the white washed houses painted with blue or yellow bars.

Obidos has always been a fortified town since its formation by the Romans. The defenses were greatly enhanced after the 12th century Christian conquest with the walls built to withstand long sieges and mighty the citadel to enforce control of the population. Visitors to Obidos will discover that the town is more than just a fortified town, it is a place of beauty, which arose from the single most import event in Obidos history. The town was a wedding gift from a king to his beloved wife.

The magnificent medieval walled town of Obidos is known as the Town of Queens because of a tradition in which kings used to offer the place to their wives.

The town boasts some lovely churches. In days gone by these were built when queens gave birth to a child.

The graceful castle is now a Pousada and perhaps the most romantic of all of the Pousadas de Portugal.

The town is stunning, full of well-preserved white houses with Manueline porticos and flower-laden window boxes; sinuous streets with romantic recesses; arcades and small squares.

Obidos is one of the most picturesque and most visited sites in the country, hosting countless cultural and tourist-oriented events.

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December 19th, 2011

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