After 3 years of renovation works, the iconic Castle of Leiria has reopened its doors to the public. More accessible and easier to explore. A brand new castle to discover!
This is actually one of the biggest investments in culture and heritage preservation in Portugal. The Castle of Leiria is now more accessible to visitors, offering two lifts, as well as a new amphitheatre and several relaxing areas. Local botanical species were placed in order to substitute other species that endangered the structure of the castle.
Quite remarkable is also the renovation of several indoor structures of this stunning monument, such as the ticket office, the medieval tanks and Pena Church that is now covered.
The Castle of Leiria
Coming up from the city, visitors enter Leiria Castle through the Albacara Gateway. Inside this defensive bastion, there are various historical points of interest that have been well preserved. They include the Church of Our Lady of Pena, the former Royal Palaces and the Keep in addition to wonderful views out over the surrounding countryside.
The architecture clearly indicates the medieval origins of this city. It was conquered by the first king of Portugal Afonso Henriques in 1135.
Far removed from its original role, the Castle again took on a prominent role in the city’s history at the beginning of the 20th century. It was innovatively restored by Ernesto Korrodi and the Liga dos Amigos do Castelo (League of Castle Friends). Together, they did much to improve Leiria’s urban landscape.
Currently, the walled enclosure is ideal for a historical stroll and a centre-piece of Leiria providing a vantage point for looking out over the city’s history and development.
📍 Location
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