Leiria - Alma Nostra

Leiria

In a hill crowned by a medieval castle, Leiria is pleasantly situated at the confluence of the rivers Lis and Lena. The old town below the castle is charming, with small houses on top of arches, elegant arcades and small churches.

Today, surrounded by a significant industrial area (plastic molds, glass), Leiria is an major development center. The region has preserved its traditions of folk art and folklore. Glazed pottery, decorative glass, wicker and quilts are some of the most popular crafts in the district of Leiria.

Leiria is the capital of the district that includes the following counties: Alcobaça, Alvaiázere, Ansião, Batalha, Bombarral, Caldas da Rainha, Castanheira de Pêra, Figueiró dos Vinhos, Leiria, Marinha Grande, Nazaré, Óbidos, Pedrógão Grande, Peniche, Pombal, Porto de Mós.

Crafts

Known for its pottery, Caldas da Rainha has also another great craft tradition: the embroideries of the Queen. Created at the time of Queen Leonor, they are made in three colors on linen. Bobbin laces are also greatly associated to Peniche. However the manufacture of glass in Marinha Grande is still the master craft of the district of Leiria. Other crafts are associated with this district such as weaving, cane and wicker basketry, stone, tin, patchwork, wrought iron, pottery, tiles, regional boats, typical dolls, woodwork, clay pieces, slate and cork, fiberglass boats and tapestries.

To visit

Sítio da Nazaré – Nazaré

Óbidos

Batalha and Alcobaça Monasteries

Leiria Pinewood Forest

Cape Carvoeiro