Ten Things to Do in the Church of Santa Maria (Igreja de Santa Maria) Leiria Portugal
The Church of Santa Maria (Igreja de Santa Maria) Leiria Portugal is a beautiful and historic religious site that has been part of the city’s landscape since the 12th century. Located in the heart of Leiria, the Church of Santa Maria is a stunning example of late Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and its interior is filled with stunning works of art and sculptures. Whether you are looking for a place to explore the city’s unique history, or simply to admire the beauty of the church, there are plenty of things to do in the Church of Santa Maria. Here are ten of the best.
1. Admire the Architecture: The Church of Santa Maria is a stunning example of late Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The exterior is made up of two towers, and the main entrance is an impressive portal decorated with sculptures. Inside, the church is filled with stunning works of art, including the intricately carved stalls, the beautiful stained glass windows, and the stunning frescoes that adorn the walls.
2. Explore the Interior: The interior of the church is filled with stunning works of art and sculptures. The main altar is made from marble, and the walls are adorned with paintings and frescoes. There are also several chapels dedicated to different saints, and the church has a crypt containing the remains of several important figures from Leiria’s history.
3. Visit the Museum: The Church of Santa Maria is also home to a museum, which contains a collection of religious artifacts, including old manuscripts, coins, and sculptures. The museum also houses a variety of religious artifacts from the Middle Ages, including a statue of Saint Anthony of Padua.
4. Attend a Service: The Church of Santa Maria is an active place of worship, and services are held regularly. Visitors are welcome to attend the services, and the church also offers a variety of special events throughout the year.
5. Attend a Concert: The Church of Santa Maria is also a popular venue for concerts, offering a variety of musical performances throughout the year. The acoustics in the church are excellent, and the atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a concert.
6. Climb the Tower: The Church of Santa Maria has two towers, and visitors are welcome to climb them to enjoy the views of the city. The towers are open to the public, and the views from the top are stunning.
7. Visit the Garden: The Church of Santa Maria also has a beautiful garden, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. The garden is filled with sculptures and plants, and it is a great place to enjoy a peaceful stroll.
8. Take a Tour: The Church of Santa Maria offers a variety of guided tours of the church, which are a great way to learn more about the history of the church and its architecture. The tours are available in both English and Portuguese, and they are a great way to get an up-close look at the church.
9. Enjoy the Festivals: The Church of Santa Maria is also home to a variety of festivals throughout the year, which are a great way to experience the city’s culture and history. The festivals include the Festival of Our Lady of the Rosary, which is held in October, and the Festival of the Sacred Heart, which is held in June.
10. Relax in the Plaza: The Church of Santa Maria is located in the heart of the city, and the plaza outside the church is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine. The plaza is filled with cafes and restaurants, and it is a great place to people watch and take in the city’s atmosphere.
Whether you are looking for a place to explore the city’s unique history, or simply to admire the beauty of the church, there are plenty of things to do in the Church of Santa Maria. From admiring the architecture to attending a festival, there is something for everyone in the Church of Santa Maria.