A little cooler as we set off, and even a little light drizzle as we head to the fortified town of Obidos - cobbled alleys and white washed properties. Completely enclosed by medieval walls although much of the town was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. 500 years back the sea reached the foot of the ridge on which the town stands, leaving a fertile green plain when it receded. Sampled the local Ginjinha d'Obidos, cherry liqueur, which is served in a small edible choclate "glass"
Travel has been through cork oak, cropping, olive tree plantations and another large irrigated rice growing area. Beginning also to see the first of the Portuguese eucalypt forests (quite a few further north are experiencing big bush fires).
On then to Fatima, Portugal's most renowned place of pilgrimage (and second only to Lourdes). The Chapel of Apparitions commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917 (the first of six such apparitions). The basilica's massive forecourt is capable of holding a million worshippers, and many visitors (as well as pilgrims) shuffle pentinently down the esplanade on their knees.
Mid twenties and light drizzle gone by afternoon for our visit to Tomar on the banks of the Rio Nabao. Standing sentry above town is the mighty Convento do Christo founded in 1160 as the headquarters of the Knights Templar - scourge of the Moors and defenders of the faith. Absolutely incredible in scale and preservation. Finished the day with a visit to the 15th century Synogogue, now preserved, but which served as a prison, and private house following the expulsion of the Portuguese jews in 1496.
It has been a massive day with many, many cobbled streets and stairs to tackle. Quite a few of the staircases were too much for me - and sadly, I trailed the field by day's end. Magnificent Temlarios Hotel, with great pool and dinner.
This trip is proving much, much better even than the high expectations I had!!
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