Caldas da Rainha is one of the best-known towns of Portugal's Silver Coast, widely famous for its traditions linked to ceramics and well-being.
Its history dates back to 1484, when Portuguese queen D. Leonor came in contact with the town's thermal springs and later built Europe's first thermal hospital. The town of Caldas da Rainha (which in Portuguese means "waters of the queen") grew around the hospital, with Queen D. Leonor still very much present in various aspects of the town's history and culture.
During the 19th century, Caldas da Rainha experienced its greatest splendour, with the popularity of its thermal treatments highly sought-after by the upper classes. At the same time, the abundance of clay in the region encouraged several ceramics factories, which transformed the town into one of the main ceramic production centres in Portugal, particularly with the creations of the ceramic artist Rafael Bordallo Pinheiro.
In recent years, "louça das Caldas" (Caldas pottery) has become increasingly popular, and you can find Bordallo's signature swallows and cabbage-inspired kitchenware all around town!
Today, Caldas da Rainha thrives on this mix of much-loved traditions from the past and vibrant energy that pulses through various aspects of the city's everyday life.
From the colours of its Praça da Fruta, to the energy of its shops and restaurants, or the joy of its many events and cultural activities. Not to mention its fabulous beaches and surrounding rural villages!
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