The Fortress of Valença hosts, between September 4 and 6, another edition of the Medieval Market, an event that over three days aims to recreate the atmosphere and some aspects of daily life from the medieval period, through a program that combines historical reenactment, culture and entertainment.
The 2026 edition is based on the passage through Valença of Duarte de Armas in 1509. This squire of the House of King Manuel I traveled the fortresses of the Portuguese border by royal command, recording their state and layout through drawings and plans. The representation of the fortress made by Duarte de Armas more than five centuries ago serves as inspiration for this year's edition's image.
Over the three days, different spaces of the Fortress will be occupied by merchants, artisans, musicians, knights and characters associated with the medieval period. The program includes crafts, demonstrations of arts and trades, dances, music, theater and gastronomy.
The programming also includes fire shows and foot and horseback tournaments, recreating various elements associated with the medieval period. The event is organized by the weekly newspaper Alto Minho.
