Leiria is half way between Lisbon and Porto, and situated between two rivers, Lis and Lena, in a region which bas always been an important stop-off place. The region's economy is concentrated on services. It also has several industries related with plastics and moulds, as well as animal food, milling, cement, civil construction, ceramics and tourism.
In 1439, the first paper made in Portugal was made in Leiria by the Jewish community. Then, in the 15th century there was Hebraic typography. During the 1755 earthquake and at the time of the napoleonic invasions the city's patrimony was relatively degraded.
The Castle was built by Afonso Henriques the first king of Portugal in 1135 to defend the South border of the kingdom. It was nevertheless lost repeatedly to the Arabs, then reconquered. King Dinis and queen Saint Isabel had it restored and made it a royal place of residence in the 13th century. It was restored again in the 19th century. From the top of the hill you will have a great view over the city.
- The Cathedral was built between 1559 and 1574 it was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake.
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Leiria - Castelo |
Leiria |
- Igreja do São Pedro. Built in Romanesque style at the end of the 12th century, it served the parish located outside the walls; it has a nave and a very beautiful gate.
- Igreja Do Espírito Santo, with a baroque facade.
- Igreja da Misericórdia, dating back to the 18th century.
- Igreja do São Francisco, with 18th century azulejos.
- Santuario da Senhora da Encarnação
Dating back to 1588, with a baroque facade, 17th century azulejos and several ex--votos left by pilgrims.
After Leiria, you go towards Figueira da Foz.
