Wandering Works for Us Podcast
Date: 6 Feb 2026
Title: Alcobaça, Portugal: Monastery History, Medieval Love Stories & Wine Traditions
Summary of Episode
In this episode of Wandering Works for Us, we explore Alcobaça, Portugal, a historic town known for its rich cultural heritage, medieval architecture, and deep ties to wine production.
Our visit begins at the Monastery of Alcobaça, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s most important Gothic monuments, founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. We share our experience walking through its vast stone halls and reflect on the legendary love story of Pedro and Inês de Castro, whose tombs rest inside the monastery.
We then visit the Wine Museum of Alcobaça (Museu do Vinho de Alcobaça), the largest wine museum in Portugal, housed in a former 19th-century winery. Here, we learn how the monks of Alcobaça shaped agriculture and winemaking in the region and how wine became central to the town’s identity.
Although the Ceramics Museum of Alcobaça was closed during our visit, we discuss its importance and Alcobaça’s long tradition of Portuguese ceramics, known throughout the country for their craftsmanship and everyday beauty.
To end the day, we take a walk up to the castle ruins above Alcobaça, where we’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the monastery and town, one of the best photo spots in the area.
This episode is perfect for travelers interested in Portuguese history, cultural travel, wine tourism, UNESCO sites, and off-the-beaten-path destinations in Portugal.
Key Topics
[00:30] Welcome back to us! A recap of the holidays, etc.
[01:40] Intro to Alcobaça
[02:10] Why we wanted to visit Alcobaça
[05:10] Alcobaça Monastery, history of the Monastery, architecture
[08:00] Parts of the Monastery and the importance of the monks
[11:35] Inês and Pedro Graves → Link to our podcast of this story
[13:30] Tour of the Monastery→ private tour here!
[13:45] Across the road from the monastery are restaurants and cafes to people-watch and have lunch.
[14:15] Wine Museum–a wine memorabilia museum
[19:40] Wine tasting at the museum
[21:30] The ceramics Museum (it was closed…)
[22:35] Castle Ruins at the top of the hill
[23:55] Other cool things in Alcobaça: the river walk, shopping, fun parks
[25:05] Make sure you visit the Atelier do Doce for pastries
What’s up next? Lisboa part 2, Portugal day trips, England and Scotland (again)
Important Links
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- Blog post for this episode
- Monasteries of Portugal blog post
- Inês and Pedro Blog post
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