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Castle · Óbidos, Leiria
Castelo e Muralhas de Óbidos
Medieval walls that encircle the entire village, with about 1.5 km of perimeter, towers and gates, and the castle at the highest point, now converted into a pousada. Much of the wall walk can be done on foot.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Castelo e Muralhas de Óbidos
The walls of Óbidos originated in the Muslim period and were reinforced after the Christian conquest in 1148 and throughout the Middle Ages. They surround the entire village, with a perimeter of about 1.5 km, including towers, gates and the castle at the highest point.
In 1282 King D. Dinis gave Óbidos as a gift to Queen Isabel de Aragão, and the village was subsequently granted to several Portuguese queens, which earned it the name Vila das Rainhas.
The castle, at the northern tip, was a royal residence and, since 1950, has operated as a pousada. The village's main entrance is the Porta da Vila, a curved passage covered in 18th-century blue-and-white azulejos.
The rampart walk along the walls can be done on foot for much of the perimeter, with views over the roofs, the plain and, in the distance, the Lagoa de Óbidos.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the return along the walls.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when there are fewer people and the light is softer. Avoid the rampart walk on rainy or very windy days.
How to get there
The main entrance is the Porta da Vila, a few minutes' walk from the parking area and the bus stop for services from Lisbon.
Tip
The path on top of the walls is narrow, uneven and lacks guardrails in several stretches: go slowly and wear sturdy shoes. It is not suitable for young children without constant supervision.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelo e Muralhas de Óbidos
Can you enter the Castelo de Óbidos?
The castle operates as a pousada; the wall walk and the surroundings are open to visitors.
How large are the walls?
About 1.5 km of perimeter around the entire village.
What is the Porta da Vila?
The main entrance to Óbidos, a curved passage covered in 18th-century tiles.