The pretty town of Castelo de Vide is of Roman origin, and nearby are the ruins of the Roman settlement of Miróbriga. Many Roman artifacts have been found there (most of them now in Lisbon's museums), but it's the sizeable Jewish presence in the Middle Ages that the town is now known for.

There is an atmospheric medieval Judiaria, or Jewish Quarter, where time seems to have stood still, with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses (most of them with Gothic doorways and potted plants on the doorsteps). Here is also the oldest synagogue in the country, although all that remains is one modest little room.

In a pretty little square below the Jewish Quarter is a covered Renaissance fountain with a pyramid roof supported by six marble columns, and a central urn carved with figures of boys. The nearby spa allegedly cures a variety of disorders from diabetes to blood pressure problems.

From the Judiaria it's a short climb to the 14th century castle that looks down on the town. Inside the walls is a medieval quarter that preserves an ancient atmosphere.

Down the hill is the newer part of town, dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, with wider, less steep streets. The elegant main square, Praça Dom Pedro V, is surrounded by Baroque buildings, churches, and the Town Hall.

There are two daily express bus services to and from Lisbon, although the town is best reached by car, which is also the easiest way to reach nearby CRATO, a village with a beautifully restored castle-monastery, now serving as a stylish pousada.

Places Nearby

Marvão - White walled town reaching the sky Estremoz - A legendary miracle; a luxury pousada Monsaraz - A white town; a magical medieval atmosphere Evora - A museum-town; a Roman temple; prehistoric sites Vila Viçosa - Marble extravagance; a royal retreat Elvas - Impressive military fortifications; a monumental aqueduct Beja - A famous 17th century love affair; a lavish old convent Mértola - Islam meets Christianity Lisbon - The Age of Discovery, World Heritage monuments, museum treasures, vibrant nightlife