Medieval Days attracts thousands of visitors to Castro Marim every summer
It’s almost time for arguably the most highly anticipated cultural event of the year in Castro Marim. From August 21 to 25, the 25th edition of the Dias Medievais (Medieval Days) fair will return to the eastern Algarve town, promising an unforgettable journey back in time.
The event will also mark the 750th anniversary of the construction of Castro Marim Castle, which serves as the main venue for the iconic medieval fair.
For five exciting days, the town of Castro Marim will transform into a medieval wonderland, recreating an atmosphere dating back several centuries.
Organisers say visitors can expect to encounter “kings, queens, knights in shining armor, jesters, merchants, monks, nobles, and even magical and demonic creatures roaming the village.”
This year’s event will also feature special participations from the twin towns of Guérande, France, and Cortegana, Spain, adding an international component to the festivities.
One of the highlights promises to be a nightly closing show using video mapping technology to project the history of the castle onto its walls.
Meanwhile, to ensure the safety of visitors, the event will also have several technicians equipped with defibrillators on stand-by.
Inside the castle, visitors will be able to explore over 45 arts and crafts demonstrations, while crowd favourites such as the event’s medieval jousting tournaments and the torture instrument exhibition returning once more.
Another standout feature of Castro Marim’s Medieval Days is its banquets, held in an exclusive area lit by torchlight. These special feasts offer a “menu of the finest period delicacies accompanied by performances from various entertainment groups.” For those wanting an even more unique experience, a royal table can be booked, where 10 guests can dine in the style of medieval nobility each night.
The programme also features a parade on the first and last day of the event, described as “one of the best opportunities to absorb this universe of imagination and fantasy.”
The event also tries to set itself apart from the crowd by hosting “exclusive performances by 30 national and international entertainment groups,” from street theatre performances and fire-breathers to medieval musicians and dancers, jugglers, sword fighters, contortionists and even snake charmers.
Marketing itself as an event for the entire family, Dias Medievais also offers entertainment for children. These kid-friendly areas feature workshops, games, carousels, storytellers, and much more, organisers say.
Last but not least, an Arabic camp will recreate the daily life of a 17th-century salt and spice trading caravan at the nearby Fort of São Sebastião, featuring professional reenactors from the Real Academia do Terço.
Tickets for the 25th edition of Medieval Days are now available online, with prices starting at €8 (for adults) and €5 (for children aged 6 to 11). Options include a five-day pass, daily tickets, and banquet tickets, which can be purchased at BOL’s website or through the usual outlets such as Fnac, Worten and El Corte Inglés. Tickets will also be available at the local market in Castro Marim and at various ticket booths during the event.
