With a centuries-old existence, the battles between Moors and Christians, the reconquest of King Afonso Henriques, the wars with the neighboring country and the intrigues at court fill the pages of countless books on the History of Portugal. But another equally valid way to learn about the past is to travel back in time through the medieval fairs.
Between histories and legends of kings, knights, temples and castles, from north to south there are more and more themed events about the Middle Ages. On the one hand, there are some that need no introduction, such as the “Medieval Journey in the Lands of Santa Maria” (considered the largest in Europe). On the other hand, there are smaller ones, but just as interesting.
Although the ‘high season’ for this type of event has passed, the truth is that you’ll still have time to visit medieval fairs, some of which are very close to Porto. However, pay attention, as the vast majority of these suggestions are concentrated in September. Even so, it’s worth at least reading and (re)discovering more about our culture, right? So let’s get to it!
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XVIII Medieval of Rio Tinto
After the Leça do Balio Medieval Fair (one of the most important near Porto), it’s time to return to the Middle Ages, less than ten minutes by car from Invicta, in Rio Tinto.
The XVIII Medieval of Rio Tinto returns to the Quinta das Freiras, near the local Urban Park, for another edition, from September 20 to 22. This year, due to the serious situation of the fires in Portugal, the event has one less day.
Even so, there will be jugglers, re-enactments, an animal farm, theater, music and, of course, lots of food, with the typical bifanas and breads with chorizo.
📍Quinta das Freiras, Rio Tinto
📅20 to 22 September
🎫Daily ticket €1.50; general pass €3.00; children under nine don’t pay
Barcelos Medieval City
In the district of Braga, the city of Barcelos travels back to the Middle Ages from September 19 to 22. This year, the event, which has already had four editions, is under the theme “Barcelos on the Way to Santiago”.
Located around 40 minutes from Porto, this can be a good alternative for those looking to have fun and travel back in time. Around here, the Barcelos Municipal Park is the epicenter of activities.
Fire shows, medieval tournaments, bonfires, musical moments, bird demonstrations and theater performances are just some of the event’s attractions.
📍Parque Municipal de Barcelos
📅September 19 to 22
🎫Free entry
Walls With History, in Sortelha
In 2023, Sortelha was considered one of the “Best Tourist Villages” by the World Tourism Organization; and we couldn’t agree more. Located in the municipality of Sabugal, in the district of Guarda, this is one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal.
Between legends and walls, Sortelha is one of the best preserved villages in the country and one of the ex-libris of the network of 12 Historical Villages. With its centuries-old history and imposing castle, this is the perfect setting to experience one of the many medieval fairs that Portugal has to offer.
In its XII edition, “Muralhas com História” returns with lots of activities, promising to transport kids and adults to medieval daily life. This year, the central theme revolves around the lives of the reign of King Dinis, in the 13th century.
Historical re-enactments, a market, circus arts, a military encampment, weapons tournaments on foot and horseback, and medieval games are just some of the many activities you can find at this incredible medieval fair. An event made even more magical by the splendor of the Beira area.
📍Historical Village of Sortelha
📅20 to 22 September
🎫2€; free admission for children up to 12 years old (as long as they are accompanied by an adult)
Palmela Medieval Fair
Of all the suggestions for medieval fairs, this is probably the one furthest from Porto. However, we believe it’s worth the trip south. Belonging to the district of Setúbal, the Palmela Medieval Fair is one of the most beautiful in that part of the country.
This year, the event takes place between September 27 and 29, against the backdrop of Palmela Castle. For three days, you’ll find markets, shows, tournaments and typical gastronomy, on a journey back to the time of King João II, under the theme “A Knight of Santiago for Mayor of Palmela”.
📍Palmela Castle
📅September 27 to 29
🎫Daily ticket costs €4; general pass costs €8
Azurara Medieval Market
Compared to the previous references, this is one of the smallest. Although it doesn’t stand out for its size, its proximity to the city of Porto makes it worth a trip to the municipality of Vila do Conde to visit the Azurara Medieval Market.
The 5th edition of the event takes place from October 3 to 6, in a space surrounding the Azurara Mother Church. There will be entertainment, handicrafts, street theater, gastronomy, fire shows and Galician burning. A more ‘simple’ event, but always fun to put on your medieval fair agenda!
📍Space near the Azurara Mother Church, Vila do Conde municipality
📅3 to 6 October
🎫To be confirmed
