Colors of Leiria - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Leiria is a beautiful city with rich historical traditions, to which local residents dedicate an interesting holiday every year. In July, they organize an annual festival of the medieval culture known as Leiria Medieval. The 3-day program of this event invariably attracts lots of tourists. The main venue of the festival is a historic castle that dates back to the early 12th century. It was built by order of the first king of Portugal Afonso Henriques. Now the ancient castle serves as an important cultural center for townspeople.

It hosts beautiful historical holidays, and on the festival days, the medieval castle comes to life in the literal sense of the word. At every step, one can see people in beautiful old costumes, listen to traditional music, try the best treats and take part in unusual historical activities. Entertainment programs are also organized outside the castle, on the city's main squares and parks.

The main events of the festival are theatrical performances, which are arranged right in the open air. Among the most spectacular are the knightly tournaments with the use of real medieval weapons. Also, guests of the historical holiday can participate in beautiful fairs, watch dance performances and music concerts. This holiday is characterized by a very warm family atmosphere, many of its entertainments are designed specifically for children. They are entertained by jesters and actors, as well as interesting children's games and competitions. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

A significant part of the festive program is devoted to traditional crafts. Everyone can observe the work of professional blacksmiths, woodcarvers, and artists, as well as learn the basics of craft art. It must be said that such a historical festival always attracts gourmets. On festive days, specialties can be enjoyed at local restaurants that specialize in medieval cuisine. They prepare meat over an open fire and serve various types of sausages, which began to be produced in the region hundreds of years ago. Traditional sangria becomes the main festive drink.

For tourists, the festival is a great opportunity to buy unusual souvenirs as a keepsake of the trip. The selection of souvenirs at local fairs is huge, from traditional spices and handmade jewelry to rare delicacies and handicrafts made by local artisans. Such a beautiful historical festival is a chance to get acquainted with the centuries-old local customs.

The summer season in Leiria is also rich in other interesting holidays. In early June, the city hosts the International Modern Music Festival. Among its participants are famous performers of jazz, classical music, fado, and other music genres. This festival is always open to talented beginners, its program lasts several weeks.

Leiria residents are very friendly and cheerful people who always pay due attention to their culture and are very welcoming to foreign guests. The Portuguese town is characterized by a very calm atmosphere. Even in the busy center of the city, there are almost no high-rise buildings. Most of its area is occupied by three- and four-story buildings, which make the appearance of the city very cute and harmonious. Nevertheless, the townspeople are used to a very modern and active rhythm of life.

An interesting feature of Leiria is the abundance of pedestrian and bicycle paths, sports stadiums, and specially equipped playgrounds for children. Leading an active lifestyle is inherent for people of all ages here. Even older people go cycling and hiking regularly, and in the morning, one can often see young people on an everyday run. In the daytime, life is in full swing in the city, local people are going about their business and just strolling around.

All tourists can feel like real locals here. Foreign travelers discovered Leiria relatively recently, the number of tourists increased significantly after 2004 when the UEFA European Football Championship was held in the city. Today, the city has quite a few tourist-oriented restaurants, cultural and entertainment centers. Going to a park or a restaurant, one can spend time together with the townspeople, observe their behavior and appreciate their cheerful and enthusiastic attitude to life.