It was the 15th century when Queen D. Leonor, suffering greatly from a wound that would not heal, stopped here to experience the wonders of thethermal waters. She was cured, and the following year, she ordered a hospital to be built. This is how the city of Caldas da Rainha emerged, shrouded in mysticism.
As a renowned thermal spa destination in Europe, this city in central Portugal has so much more to offer!
So, are you ready to uncover all the secrets of this charming city?
Caldas da Rainha
Situated in Leiria Dsitrict and only at 8 km from the coast, Leiria e apenas a 8km da costa, Caldas da Rainha is a touristic destination of excellence, for those o look for culture, heritage and nature. Above all, for those who are in search of peace and quiet!
Named a UNESCO Creative City in 2019, along with Leiria, Caldas da Rainha is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Portugal.
Fruit Square - Caldas da Rainha
Termalismo
And so, talking about Caldas da Rainha is synonymous with talking about Thermalism. Its Thermal Hospital (dating back to 1485 and the oldest in the world), together with the Thermal Park, proudly serves as the city's hallmark.
Plus, in the Hospital Meseum you can find the famous commitment of honor from Queen D. Leonor,, that explaines the proper operation of the Hospital, among other valuable pieces.
The thermal waters, beneficial for treating respiratory and musculoskeletal conditions, draw many visitors who simply seek a respite from everyday stress.
So, if you're looking for a destination where you can relax and improve your health at the same time, the Termas do Vimeiro and Termas das Caldas da Rainha offer a wide range of programs to suit all tastes.
Thermal Hospital
Museums
In addition to its renown for thermalism, the city of Caldas da Rainha is also internationally recognized for its diverse arts, particularly painting, sculpture, ceramics, visual arts, and design. After all, who hasn’t heard of the painter José Malhoa or the ceramics of Bordallo Pinheiro?
Beyond the Hospital Museum, there are many other cultural options for a fantastic weekend in this city.
So, if you’re passionate about art, this is certainly a getaway you’ll want to experience!
Dessa forma, existem vários museus espalhados pela cidade. Contudo, as nossas recomendações vão para:
- José Malhoa Museum, located in D. Carlos I Park, not far from the Thermal Hospital, this museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, medals, and ceramics from the last quarter of the 19th century and the early 20th century.
- Ceramics Museum, located 5 minutes away from José Malhoa Museumfollowing the Bordalo Pinheiro Street,n a romantic mansion, this museum holds a spectacular collection of ceramics organized by themes, dating from the 15th century. Nearby, you’ll also find Art Center where are included the Barata- Feyo Museum,Leopoldo de Almeida Museum and the Museum João Fragoso.. These three museums are dedicated to sculpture in all kinds od material.
- Loja de fábrica de Bordallo Pinheiro e a Casa-Museu São Rafael, located on Bordalo Pinheiro Street, it is a must-visit location where, you’ll be able to admire the famous and unique works of this artist in all their splendor. Definitely not to be missed!
Loiças de Bordallo Pinheiro
Património
However, stroll arround the city of Caldas da Rainha It’s discovering art at every corner. The facades of old, stately homes transport us to another time.
Thus, it’s easy to come across centuries-old churches, such as, for example, a Igreja da Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, which, despite its small size, features various architectural styles on its facade. Or the Holy Spirit Chapel
In the City center, you can also find the D. Carlos I Park A huge park with a Romantic garden, artificial lake and avenues filled with trees that seem straight out of a fairy tale. A place to take a walk in nature without leaving the city. Meanwhile, don’t miss the beautiful pavillions which rise like haunted giants, contrasting with the natural green of the park.
Shortly after, you can find D. Leonor Forest, Another green lung in this city, which is proving to be an enchanting refuge.
Even more, the bridge that connects the Thermal Hospital to D. Carlos I Park,has a very peculiar caracteristic. Its ceiling is all made of glass and iron!That's why it's called the Glass Sky. Nowadays, this space hosts exhibitions and small fairs.
Glass Sky - Caldas da Rainha
Simultaneously, scattered throughout the city, you can also find several fountains,beeing the most iconic the Cinco Bicas Fountain.
However, a visit to this city is not complete, without the visit to the local market.Here, with the name of Fruit Square it is a source of pride for all the people of Caldas, where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables straight from the garden, traditional bread, and cheeses. In other words, a true feast for the senses!
Natureza e Praias perto das Caldas da Rainha
A praia mais próxima das Caldas da Rainha é a Praia da Foz do Arelho. Localizada na Vila de foz do Arelho a menos de 10 km das Caldas da Rainha é uma zona muito concorrida. Sobretudo para quem procura uma mistura entre mar e campo,
A little further away, but still quite close, as it is actually located before the Foz do Arelho Beach, is the Óbidos lagoon.A place of rare beauty, home to numerous animal species, particularly birds.
Certainly, you will be fascinated when visiting Caldas da Rainhaand wonder why this beautiful city is not talked about more, where there is no shortage of places to visit and activities to do.
Perhaps when you visit, you'll become another fan of the people of Caldas and their city!
Are you ready to Break Free?
If you have a few more days to explore the area, we recommend a visit to the Surf Capital - Peniche and also Óbidos.
