The Castle of Santa Maria de Feira is one of the finest specimen of Portuguese medieval military architecture and one of the national monuments of Portugal. According to legend, it was originally built by King Alfonso III of Asturias circa 868 on the site of a former pagan shrine. For many years, the fortress was a major base in the Reconquista, helping Christians to protect the Iberian Peninsula from the Moor invasions. The castle was destroyed and rebuilt several times; the current building was founded in the 11th century and has undergone several reconstructions.
The Castle of Santa Maria de Feira was officially opened to the public in 1950, although paid tours of the castle were organized as early as 1927. Since 1996, it has hosted the annual Viagem Medieval Festival (Medieval Journey), which is widely regarded as one of the largest historical reenactment festivals in Europe.
The Medieval Journey Festival runs over twelve days in late July and early August. During the event, the castle grounds and the entire town of Santa Maria da Feira transform into a medieval settlement, allowing attendees to time travel to the Middle Ages, have exciting experiences, and make amazing memories. Every year, the program of the festival focuses on specific events that helped to shape Portugal’s history.
The program of the festival includes more than 1,500 performances and historical reenactments over 12 days: tournaments, court dances, processions, feasts, singing, dancing, juggling, and more. In addition to performances, there are sixteen thematic areas that offer exciting experiences: medieval European market and Arab markets with unique clothes and handicrafts, Lake of Enchantments, a shooting range for archers, and arts and crafts area, a children’s area, relaxing baths, a petting farm, a falconry area, and more. And, of course, there are food vendors offering medieval delicacies such as lamb and rabbit strew, cabbage soup, and sweet bread.
To feel more immersed in the medieval atmosphere, visitors can book special experiences. For example, couples can have a marriage ceremony, families can dress up as a family of courtiers, and anyone can book a seat in the Royal Grandstand to watch the Medieval Tournament. Other experiences include Princess for a Day, Knight for a Day, Warrior for a Day, a guided tour through the Village in the company of a court jester, and aa guided tour through the town’s religious heritage.
Admission to the festival is paid; visitors can purchase an access bracelet that is valid for all days of the festival or a daily ticket valid only on a specific day. Keep in mind that the price of admission does not include the medieval tournament and some other activities, which come at an extra fee. Experience tickets are also purchased separately.
Photo: viagemmedieval.com
