Óbidos - Leiria, Portugal
Posted by: 
razalas
N 39° 21.829 W 009° 09.446
29S E 486437 N 4357163
Óbidos is a town of approximately 3100 inhabitants, located in the Oeste Subregion, of the historical district of Leiria, in Portugal.
Waymark Code: WMAXA7
Location: Leiria, Portugal
Date Posted: 03/07/2011
Views: 17
The name "Óbidos" probably derives from the Latin term oppidum, meaning "citadel", or "fortified city". Roman occupation of the area was confirmed by archaeological excavations, revealing the existence of a Roman city civitas near the hilltop on which the village and castle were established. This Roman settlement is most certainly the mysterious Eburobrittium, cited by Pliny the Elder as situated between Collipo (near present-day Leiria) and Olisipo (Lisbon). Archeological surveys determined the remains of a forum, baths and other Roman structures near the settlement.
After the fall of Rome, came under the influence of the Visigoths, although specific records are missing. The Roman town of Eburobrittium was abandoned in the 5th century for the more secure hilltop where today the principal settlement located. Sometime after 713 the Moors established a fortification on this mountain, while a Christian community of Mozarabs lived in the Moncharro neighbourhood.
The area was taken from the Moors by the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, in 1148.
The castle is a monument of reference, and is an example of Portuguese medieval fortress, built on a small hill dominating the surrounding plains and the Arno River in the east. Result of various architectural interventions over the centuries, includes the entire village, which preserves its medieval characteristics.
Classified as a National Monument, he was elected as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and world heritage of unesco.
Name of Source Book: 1000 Places to See Before You Die
Page Location in Source Book: 252-253
Type of Waymark: City
Location of Coordinates: Photographed site
Cost of Admission (Parks, Museums, etc.): 0.00 (listed in local currency)
List Available Hours, Dates, Season:
24/7
Official Tourism Website: [Web Link]
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Visit Instructions:
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