Discovering the Magic of FOLIO 2025: A Literary Journey in Óbidos.

The official image of the 10th edition of FÓLIO – Óbidos International Literary Festival (October 9-19, 2025) symbolically translates the theme “Frontiers”: a foot crosses the line between earth and asphalt, evoking the power of literature to make us cross boundaries — physical, mental, cultural and emotional.

---

There's something truly special about October in the village of Óbidos. From October 9th to 19th, 2025, this walled village in the heart of the Silver Coast transforms into a living stage of words, ideas, music, and art with FÓLIO – Óbidos International Literary Festival.

Every cobblestone street, every ancient gate, every cozy café becomes part of the spectacle. We find book stalls scattered throughout the squares, authors chatting with readers in cafes, roundtable discussions on topics like climate and creativity, visual exhibitions that challenge our senses, and music that mingles with poetry in the evening air. It's a festival that speaks to everyone—families, couples, curious travelers, longtime readers, and even those still discovering the joy of reading.

Conversations, Readings and Unforgettable Moments

From the moment I arrived at the festival last year, I realized it wasn't just another literary event. It was a true cultural immersion. I saw teenagers debating ideas alongside poets, children choosing books with their parents in the children's tent, and couples exchanging impressions after a reading, to the sound of guitars in a candlelit courtyard.

Two Nobel Prizes in Óbidos

This year, FÓLIO raises the bar even further, with the confirmed presence of two Nobel Prize-winning authors in Literature:

• Annie Ernaux, known for her autobiographical and intimate books.

  
  

• Abdulrazak Gurnah, whose novels explore exile, identity, and the legacy of colonialism.

Hearing them live, in places like ancient churches, hidden libraries or literary cafes, will certainly be one of the highlights of the year.

Much More Than a Book Festival

But the festival goes far beyond the big names. There are book launches, writing workshops, visual exhibitions, storytelling for children, and many unexpected moments—the ones that stay with us forever. I remember last year, accidentally discovering a Portuguese poet reciting verses in a courtyard, accompanied by a cello. Magical.

Óbidos at Dusk: A Living Book

As the sun sets, Óbidos takes on a special glow. The lights come on, the hubbub dies down, and all that's left is the sound of pages turning and laughter in the distance. The town transforms into a living book—and we're all part of this story.

Where to Stay During FOLIO

If you're thinking of visiting, book in advance. Choose a few sessions, but leave time to get lost. Taste the famous Ginja in a chocolate cup. Explore slowly. Chat. Listen.

And after a day full of inspiration, there's nothing better than returning to the tranquility of Villa's Pomar do Moinho. Just minutes from Óbidos, it's the perfect retreat to rest, reflect, and maybe even start reading that new book you brought home. With its surrounding nature, cozy studios, and warm hospitality, it's the ideal balance of culture and relaxation.

FOLIO 2025: An Experience Not to Be Missed

FÓLIO isn't just a festival—it's an experience. A meeting of literature, life, and landscape that few places in the world can offer. This year, I'll be there again, notebook in hand and heart open—ready to turn another page..