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MEDIEVAL MONTEMOR
Montemor-O-Velho
29th June 2008
Held over three days in Castelo de Montemor-o-Velho, the Medieval Montemor festival brings the times of yore back to Portugal. Expect markets, jousting, children’s entertainment and, of course, mead for the adults.
Portugal has a spectacular history – especially in the Beira Litoral region. Coimbra, for example, has been established since time immemorial. For a long spell the central region of Portugal was controlled by the Moors, who used the river and coast to establish the area as an important Iberian trade link. In the mid-12th century the Christians again managed to take control. Many important monuments from the city of Coimbra date from this early period, like the Old Cathedral, the Church of St. James (Igreja de Santiago) and the Santa Cruz Monastery, which was the most important Portuguese monastic institution at the time. The region around this time must have been fantastic. Even in today’s modern age, there is so much of the countryside, of the streets and rural traditions that give glimpses into the olden times.
Perhaps because of this feeling of sharing land with the past, the medieval times are still celebrated every year in this historic region.
The festival itself, which takes places of three days around the 29th of June, 2008, is held with typical gusto. On the 28th of June the tavern is erected where “patrons” can sample mead as well as local wines. Chicken livers, kidneys, necks, pork secrets and all sorts of hearty, old-fashioned meals and snacks are also available. All of them, of course, organic and fresh!
The jousting tournament takes place on the 29th. Besides this (if that wasn’t already impressive enough!) there is sword fighting, falconry, tug-of-war, giant catapults, jesters and actors depicting life in medieval times. There is usually a professional leper, or beggar in attendance to horrify the children. Don’t be too harsh with him though, as he’s only an enthusiastic actor.
As souvenirs, fresh bread, hand-woven baskets, leatherwork, shoes and cakes are sold at stalls. All of these items are made in the months leading up to the festa.
Visitors are extremely welcome. The event takes place in a relaxed environment and is fun for the whole family. The good natured crowd always takes time to stop and chat with neighbours and cunhados.
Be sure to attend!