Óbidos

Óbidos is a small medieval town in central Portugal with a population of around 3–4 thousand people. It is completely surrounded by well-preserved defensive walls, which you can walk along.

The town has a rich history: there was already a settlement here during the time of the Roman Empire, and in the 12th century, Óbidos was taken from the Moors by Portugal’s first king, Afonso I of Portugal. Later, it became part of the dowry of Portuguese queens and was traditionally gifted to them, which is why it’s often called the “town of queens.”

In the main square stands the pelourinho — the stone pillar. It symbolized municipal authority and independence; in the past, criminals could be publicly punished there.

Óbidos is also known for its atmosphere: whitewashed houses with colorful flowers, narrow streets, and a feeling of “frozen in time.”

And finally, the local specialty: you should try Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur often served in edible chocolate cups. There’s also a unique local variation — chocolate ginjinha, which is made specifically in Óbidos and is hard to find elsewhere.