Every summer, the ancient walls of Óbidos, one of Portugal’s most enchanting medieval towns, awaken to the sound of music, laughter, and the clang of swords. The Óbidos Medieval Market (Mercado Medieval de Óbidos) isn’t just an event — it’s a full-blown journey through living history, where legends walk among the living and love stories echo through the cobblestone streets.
This year’s festival theme, “Pedro e Inês”, invites you to relive Portugal’s most tragic and powerful love story — a tale of forbidden passion, betrayal, and devotion that transcends time.
💔 The Legend of Pedro and Inês: Portugal’s Eternal Love Story
No story captures the Portuguese soul quite like that of Dom Pedro and Dona Inês de Castro — a love so deep it defied kings, politics, and even death itself.
It all began in the 14th century when Inês, a noblewoman from Galicia, arrived at the royal court as a lady-in-waiting to Princess Constança Manuel, Pedro’s wife. Fate, however, had other plans. Pedro fell hopelessly in love with Inês — her beauty, gentleness, and intelligence ignited a forbidden passion that shook the kingdom.
Their secret love blossomed despite royal disapproval, and after Constança’s death, Pedro longed to marry Inês openly. But King Afonso IV, fearing political instability and foreign influence, ordered Inês’s execution. She was killed in the gardens of Coimbra — a cruel act meant to end their affair.
What followed became legend: Pedro’s fury and grief transformed into vengeance. After ascending to the throne, he exhumed Inês’s body, placed her upon the throne, and declared her Queen of Portugal, demanding that courtiers kiss her hand in homage. Thus was born one of Europe’s most hauntingly beautiful love stories — the tale of “the Queen crowned after death.”
🏺 What Awaits You at the Óbidos Medieval Market
When you step through the gates of Óbidos during the festival, you’re not just visiting a market — you’re entering the 14th century. The village transforms into a living, breathing medieval world filled with knights, merchants, minstrels, and mystics.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
🏮 The Marketplace: A Feast for the Senses
The narrow streets of Óbidos overflow with life as traders and artisans fill the air with shouts and laughter. You’ll find everything from hand-forged weapons and intricate jewelry to fragrant herbs and colorful fabrics.
Follow the irresistible scent of roasted meats and spiced wine — and don’t be surprised if a blacksmith or fortune-teller tries to strike up a conversation!
🍗 Feasting and Revelry: Dine Like Royalty
No medieval celebration is complete without a grand feast. Wooden tables groan under platters of meat, fresh fish, rustic breads, and sweet pastries. Local taverns (“tabernas”) flow with Portuguese wine and ale, accompanied by laughter, song, and spontaneous dancing late into the night.
It’s the perfect chance to raise a cup and toast to eternal love — Pedro and Inês would approve.
🎭 Medieval Entertainment: Music, Magic, and Mayhem
Throughout the market, jugglers, jesters, and minstrels fill the air with music and mischief. Acrobats (“saltimbancos”) tumble through the streets, knights spar in tournaments, and performers bring medieval legends to life.
Every corner holds a surprise — from mock trials to street theater, there’s something captivating for every age.
⚔️ Themed Experiences You Can’t Miss
🕯️ Abadia das Lágrimas (Abbey of Tears)
Once a solemn place of mourning for Inês’s soul, the abbey now hosts performances of music, theater, and poetry celebrating her eternal love.
⚖️ O Julgamento (The Judgment)
A dramatic reenactment of D. Pedro’s grief and fury after Inês’s death — a moment of raw emotion that never fails to move the crowd.
🌒 Cortejo Noturno (The Night Procession)
As dusk falls, the streets grow silent for a somber nighttime procession, symbolizing Inês’s final journey. Lit by torches and accompanied by mournful chants, it’s one of the most hauntingly beautiful parts of the festival.
🛡️ Torneio “A Ferro e Fogo” (Tournament of Iron and Fire)
Watch knights battle for honor and truth in thrilling live combat. This year’s storyline centers on D. Teresa, a court lady accused of being Pedro’s lover, fighting to prove her innocence through trial by arms.
💞 Praça dos Desejos (Square of Desires)
In the heart of the town, lovers gather by the “Fonte dos Amores” (Fountain of Love) to whisper promises and make wishes — a perfect romantic stop for couples.
🧪 Alquimias (The Alchemy Workshop)
Step inside a mysterious laboratory where masters of the occult brew potions and elixirs. Try a sip — if you dare!
✍️ Escriba d’El Rei (The King’s Scribe)
See how medieval scribes once worked, preserving royal decrees and recording the secrets of the kingdom.
🌟 Why You Should Visit the Óbidos Medieval Market
There’s something magical about Óbidos during the medieval fair. Beneath its stone walls and fluttering banners, the town feels like a living time capsule — alive with music, color, and emotion.
Locals, known as “Obidenses,” take pride in welcoming visitors with open arms. Dressed in vibrant medieval attire, they sing, dance, and celebrate the timeless power of love, life, and history.
If you want to experience authentic Portuguese culture, this festival is a must. It’s not just about history — it’s about feeling the heartbeat of Portugal itself.
🏖️ Extend Your Journey: Explore Óbidos and Nazaré
Looking to make the most of your trip? Join our full-day tour from Lisbon that takes you from the fairy-tale streets of Óbidos to the breathtaking cliffs of Nazaré, home to the world’s biggest surfable waves.
It’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty — all in one unforgettable day.