Fodor's Expert Review Castelo de Leiria
Built in 1135 by Prince Afonso Henriques (later Portugal's first king), Leiria Castle was to become an important link in the chain of defenses along the southern border of what was at the time the Kingdom of Portugal. When the Moors were driven from the region, the castle lost its significance and lay dormant until the early 14th century, when it was restored and modified and became the favorite residence of Dom Dinis and his queen, Isabel of Aragon. With these modifications the castle became more of a palace than a fortress and remains one of the loveliest structures of its kind in Portugal. Within the perimeter walls you'll encounter the ruins of a Gothic church, the castle keep, and—built into the section of the fortifications overlooking the town—the royal palace. Lined by eight arches, its balcony affords lovely views.
A prize-winning refurbishment concluded in 2021 saw displays in the small museum revamped and funicular elevators installed on the north and south flanks... READ MORE
Built in 1135 by Prince Afonso Henriques (later Portugal's first king), Leiria Castle was to become an important link in the chain of defenses along the southern border of what was at the time the Kingdom of Portugal. When the Moors were driven from the region, the castle lost its significance and lay dormant until the early 14th century, when it was restored and modified and became the favorite residence of Dom Dinis and his queen, Isabel of Aragon. With these modifications the castle became more of a palace than a fortress and remains one of the loveliest structures of its kind in Portugal. Within the perimeter walls you'll encounter the ruins of a Gothic church, the castle keep, and—built into the section of the fortifications overlooking the town—the royal palace. Lined by eight arches, its balcony affords lovely views.
A prize-winning refurbishment concluded in 2021 saw displays in the small museum revamped and funicular elevators installed on the north and south flanks of the castle, as well as new walkways around it—smoothing visits for people with reduced mobility.
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