A glimpse to medieval Portugal
I was reminded recently of my last trip to Portugal, a country I know well and have visited frequently. For me, Portugal means (among other things, but chiefly) – horses, and of course the Lusitano horse, the national breed. Being an ancient and noble type of horse they resonate with anybody familiar with medieval art from the 11th – 16th centuries, and beyond into the Baroque era.
Central to Portuguese equestrianism is the town of Golegã, and this centre and the surrounding district of the Ribatejo is where I have generally visited over the last 14 years or so. But this time I struck out further South and West, in the area to the West of Lisbon around the ancient town of Sintra. I’m was over there to see a young horse that we have in training with a professional rider, and to try out another older one who I was hoping would make the grade as a destrier. Unfortunately he didn’t, but with a reasonable amount of free time on my hands I was able to explore a previously undiscovered area.
The visit was arranged somewhat last minute, and at a busy time of the year so I didn’t do my due diligence and research what was around. Fortunately, wanting some comfort for my downtime I chose a very nice hotel in the centre of Sintra, and it transpires it is directly across from the Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra) This was a favourite place of King Duarte I – famous as an intellectual medieval king, and a prolific writer. One topic he was passionate about, was of course equestrianism. His unfinished work, Livro do Cavalgar (Book on Riding) is a source that covers many aspects and facets of equestrianism, including jousting, and is filled with practical advice and instruction. Whilst not complete, it is another important window into the mindset of the medieval mind, and a vital source for someone such as myself. It has undergone a second translation and interpretation, which is immensely readable.
To be able to tread the same rooms as he did (much of the knowledge of the current layout of the Palace is derived from D. Duarte’s work) was an unexpected pleasure. To be able to see the palace from my hotel room was a treat. Would recommend a visit and will be coming back.