view from the castle

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

This time, as opposed to a previous post for Castelo de Vide, the view of this marvellous medieval town has been taken from the castle.

doorways rich in history

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

Gothic doorways like this one can be seen in abundance throughout the Jewish Quarter of Castelo de Vide.

Jewish Quarter

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

During the Middle Ages, a large population of Jewish people resided in this whitewashed village housed among an intricate network of narrow cobbled streets with Gothic doorways.  Here is said to be the oldest synagogue in the country.

What lies ahead?

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

What lies at the end of this road?  Don't be shy; be adventurous and find out!

shadows and shapes

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

After a day of walking through centuries of history, this was the perfect way to end my day with no need to be at any particular place at any particular time.

cork

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

Portugal is the leading cork producer in the world, accounting for almost 50% of world production.  Cork is obtained from the bark of this cork oak tree once the tree is about 25 years old and can then be harvested every nine years.  The average life of this tree can be as long as 150 years and it is illegal to cut one down unless special permission is granted by the authorities.

It is a beautiful sight driving around the Alentejo Region observing the wonderful hues of brown resulting from these trees.

magical silence

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

Built in the 16th century, this chapel, Nossa Senhora da Penha (Our Lady of the Rock), was built on a hill overlooking Castelo de Vide.  I highly recommend coming here to experience the magical silence that exists for miles around you, along with the spectacular views.

standing tall

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

This medieval town, set on a hill in the São Mamede mountain range, was an important stronghold close to the Spanish border.  Today, it is a town full of charm where time seems to stand still.  It holds a castle dating from the 14th century, a beautiful Jewish quarter containing the oldest synagogue in Portugal as well as more than 30 churches and chapels, all to be found strolling through its winding cobbled streets.

tranquility

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

Visiting remote villages like Castelo de Vide slows your pace and makes you disconnect and step back from it all - at least for a while, that is.

doors with charm

Castelo de Vide, Portugal - Region of Alentejo

The charm of many doors around the castle area of Castelo de Vide takes me back in time.