It’s not like Óbidos needs any more attractions. This beautiful medieval town is a must-see destination in Portugal. Inside its castle walls live the echoes of an age of chivalry that is long gone.
Now that books are disappearing, their cellular fibers replaced by electric impulses, Óbidos has created unique bookstores in ancient spaces.
One of our favorites is Livraria do Mercado (the market bookstore). It occupies the wine cellar of an old manor house and doubles as an organic market. Here, the fruits of the land share the space with the fruits of the imagination, everything stored inside one thousand rustic wooden boxes.
Another favorite is Livraria Santiago which occupies a 12th century church. It is a peaceful place where books wait in silence for the readers who seek their blessings.
These bookstores transformed Óbidos into a literary village, a place where the thick castle walls protect the precious art of reading.
Click here to see the list of Óbidos bookstores.
Salt of Portugal 
Fantastic! I love Obidos. I was there for a medieval fair a few years ago. 🙂 🙂
It is a beautiful place!
I have travelled so much around this lovely country, and still much to left unexplored…
You have to keep coming back!
I sincerely hope to settle down here… 😊 too much in love with the country
We hope you stay!
Obrigada! ❤
The woman who was at the Livraria do Mercado (the market bookstore) when I was there in 2017 was especially warm and welcoming. It is a wonderful place to relax and catch your breath. Sadly, I can’t read in Portuguese, but it was fun flipping through pages for pictures.
Thank you for being so gracious. Perhaps I felt the warmth because my daughter is named Elena also 🙂
That’s one of the reasons why I love Obidos so much… the literary side! Awesome post!
Thank you so much!