Near Porto, more specifically in Leça do Balio, in the municipality of Matosinhos, there is an incredible place that is well worth a visit, especially for those who enjoy historical monuments… and now there’s news! After rehabilitation, the Monastery of Leça do Balio will reopen its doors.
According to Jornal de Notícias it will indeed be possible visit for free the monastery from June 22. However, this requires a prior registration on the Livraria Lello Foundation website, which made this space its current headquarters.
According to the same source, the visits will take place every day of the week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on June 24th. However, this is not the only news, as the official opening is scheduled for June 21, when the program for 2024 will be unveiled.
History, photography & sculpture
Classified as a National Monument since 1910, the Monastery of Leça do Balio is known for having hosted the first romantic wedding in history of the portuguese monarchy in the XIV. At the same time, it is still an (almost) obligatory stopping point on the Camino de Santiago route.
However, the role of this space today goes beyond its historical importance. When it was acquired by the Lionesa Business Center, it is now the headquarters of the Livraria Lello Foundation, which intends to make the place more dynamic. The inauguration of the renovated monument coincides with the presentation of the “Act The Thought” exhibition.
This is a photographic project that aims to mix the faces of anonymous figures with those of well-known personalities to fill the entire area around the building. The aim is to alert people to the risks of misinformation.
Another possibility for those who appreciate culture is to visit the Escultura Aberta, the work of the famous architect Álvaro Siza Vieira (which has already been awarded a Pritzker Prize).
However, you have to pay to see the sculpture: 8€ for adults; 4€ for students and seniors (over 65); children under 12 don’t pay (as long as they are accompanied by adults).