Culture of Leiria. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Leiria boasts amazing historic attractions, which can make your vacation even more exciting. On the hilltop, you will find the city's main historical symbol - the wonderful castle Castelo de Leiria, which was built in the 12th century by order of the first king of Portugal. This castle has been rebuilt and expanded over the centuries. Now it is striking in its scale and impregnable appearance. A beautiful 15th-century residence where the Pope once lived has been preserved on its grounds.

Since the buildings that can be seen on the territory of the castle were erected at different times, there are monuments of various architectural styles among them. The castle has preserved a small temple and various outbuildings, and its spacious terraces offer picturesque views of the city. For many years, the old castle has been a permanent venue for beautiful historical festivals and holidays. Many visit the castle in the evening when its adjacent territory is decorated with artistic illumination.

The ancient Cathedral of Leiria, which is currently one of the city's oldest buildings, has been preserved in the central district of Leiria. The construction of this cathedral by order of King Juan III began in 1546 and took almost 30 years. In 1755, the cathedral was badly damaged by the earthquake, after which it was completely reconstructed. It has remained virtually unchanged since then, its facade is now decorated with slender columns and mosaic windows. Unique elements of decoration created in the 18th century were also preserved inside the temple. The cathedral's interior is made in the best traditions of the Renaissance style. Two ancient organs have been preserved within its walls, and part of the temple is presently occupied by the small historical museum Museu de Leiria. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

At the foot of the castle hill is another picturesque shrine - the Church of San Pedro. It was built in the 12th century, almost simultaneously with the castle. The religious building has been preserved to this only partially. The old temple's Romanesque-style portal has survived among other elements. Although the historic church is no longer operational, it is still a revered site for local residents.

There are quite a few sights within the tiny city, but in its vicinity, there is a really wide selection of architectural monuments and cultural centers. Four kilometers away from the city is the ancient monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória na Batalha built in the Manuelino style typical of Portugal. The construction of the monastery began in 1385 after John I of Portugal won a very important battle. The monastery was fully completed only in 1517. By that time, there were already tombs of six Portuguese monarchs on its territory.

Like many other historical buildings in the region, the monastery was badly damaged by the earthquake in the mid-18th century. It was successfully rebuilt but looted and destroyed again during the Napoleonic wars. The next reconstruction of the monastery began only in the middle of the 19th century. The monastery was completely restored by 1907.

The building was built in accordance with the original historical appearance to the greatest extent possible. Today, it is decorated with many graceful turrets, as well as high windows and artistic arches. After the reconstruction was completed, the National Museum of Portugal was opened in the old building. Today, the monastery with valuable exhibits stored within its halls is recognized as a site of world significance. Here you can see collections of historical documents and manuscripts, old traditional costumes and handicrafts.

From the city, you can easily reach the ancient castle Porto-de-Mos, a 13th-century architectural monument that was built as a fortification palace. Until the first half of the 18th century, it has avoided major destruction and remained almost unchanged. During the earthquake, part of the buildings collapsed and never been restored. The old castle is currently privately owned but still open for tours. Everyone can rent it to hold any kind of celebration.

Not far from the castle is another interesting attraction - a system of caves containing beautiful geological formations. During their research, scientists discovered valuable archaeological artifacts, once these caves were home to prehistoric animals. Valuable archaeological areas are now open to the public.