Visit Portugal - Leça do Balio Monastery
Hi 👋
On a quiet morning, I set out to visit the Monastery of Leça do Balio, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a true gem of Portugal history. While the doors were closed during my visit, the grandeur of its exterior and the tranquil beauty of its gardens made the experience unforgettable.
Nestled in the heart of Leça do Balio, near Matosinhos, this medieval gem is one of the oldest and most significant Gothic structures in Portugal. Although I knew the monastery would be closed during my visit, I was determined to experience its beauty from the outside.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Situada no coração de Leça do Balio, perto de Matosinhos, esta joia medieval é uma das estruturas góticas mais antigas e significativas de Portugal. Embora soubesse que o mosteiro estaria fechado durante a minha visita, estava determinado a apreciar a sua beleza a partir do exterior.
Its towering stone structure stood solemnly against the backdrop of the morning sky. The golden sunlight highlighted the textures and patterns of the ancient stones, making the building look even more magnificent.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
A sua imponente estrutura de pedra erguia-se solenemente contra o pano de fundo do céu da manhã. A luz dourada do sol realçava as texturas e os padrões das pedras antigas, tornando o edifício ainda mais magnífico.
From the very first glance, it was clear why the Monastery of Leça do Balio holds such historical importance. This was one of the first major Gothic buildings in Portugal. The robust and austere architecture exuded strength, while the pointed windows and arched doorways added a touch of grace and refinement.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Desde o primeiro olhar que ficou claro porque é que o Mosteiro de Leça do Balio detém tamanha importância histórica. Este foi um dos primeiros grandes edifícios góticos em Portugal. A arquitetura robusta e austera transpirava força, enquanto as janelas pontiagudas e as portas em arco acrescentavam um toque de graciosidade e requinte.
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Standing at the front, I noticed how beautifully symmetrical the design was. The entrance was framed by large stone columns, and above it, I could see the remnants of decorative carvings that had withstood the test of time. Even without stepping inside, the sheer presence of the building was enough to transport me back to Portugal's medieval era.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Parando em frente, reparei como o design era lindamente simétrico. A entrada era emoldurada por grandes colunas de pedra e, por cima dela, pude ver os restos de esculturas decorativas que resistiram ao teste do tempo. Mesmo sem entrar, a simples presença do edifício foi suficiente para me transportar de volta à era medieval de Portugal.
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The windows were particularly striking. Their pointed gothic arches gave the building a sense of height and elegance. Some of the stone around the windows was weathered, but this only added to the charm, serving as a reminder of the many centuries this monastery has witnessed.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
As janelas eram particularmente impressionantes. Os seus arcos góticos pontiagudos davam ao edifício uma sensação de altura e elegância. Algumas das pedras em redor das janelas estavam gastas, mas isso só aumentava o encanto, servindo de recordação dos muitos séculos que este mosteiro testemunhou.
Walking around the exterior of the monastery, I noticed how well-preserved the structure was. Despite its age, the building looked solid and cared for. The clean lines of the stone walls and the absence of significant damage were a testament to the efforts made to preserve this historic site.The doors were another highlight. Large and arched, they seemed almost like portals to another world.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Caminhando pelo exterior do mosteiro, reparei o quão bem preservada a estrutura estava. Apesar da idade, o edifício parecia sólido e cuidado. As linhas limpas das paredes de pedra e a ausência de danos significativos foram uma prova dos esforços feitos para preservar este local histórico. Grandes e arqueados, pareciam quase portais para outro mundo.
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As I continued exploring, I noticed a bit of activity happening beside the monastery. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was an event organized by the Fundação Livraria Lello. This foundation, known for its cultural contributions and literary initiatives, was hosting what appeared to be a gathering or exhibition.
Although I didn't participate in the event, it added a unique energy to the atmosphere. Seeing a modern cultural activity taking place so close to such an ancient site was a beautiful juxtaposition. It felt like the perfect way to honor the history of the monastery while keeping it relevant to the present.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Enquanto continuava a explorar, notei um pouco de atividade a acontecer ao lado do mosteiro. Olhando mais de perto, percebi que se tratava de um evento organizado pela Fundação Livraria Lello. Esta fundação, conhecida pelas suas contribuições culturais e iniciativas literárias, estava a acolher o que parecia ser um encontro ou exposição.
Embora não tenha participado no evento, acrescentou uma energia única à atmosfera. Ver uma atividade cultural moderna a acontecer tão perto de um local tão antigo foi uma bela justaposição. Pareceu-nos a forma perfeita de homenagear a história do mosteiro e, ao mesmo tempo, mantê-la relevante para o presente.
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If you are ever near Matosinhos or exploring the northern region of Portugal, I highly recommend visiting the Monastery of Leça do Balio. Even if you can only see it from the outside, its worth the trip. The blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes it a unique and memorable destination.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Se estiver perto de Matosinhos ou a explorar a região norte de Portugal, recomendo vivamente a visita ao Mosteiro de Leça do Balio. Mesmo que só consiga ver de fora, vale a pena a viagem. A mistura de história, arquitetura e beleza natural faz deste um destino único e memorável.
Plan your visit in the morning if you can. The soft light of the early hours enhances the beauty of the stonework and creates a serene atmosphere. Take your time to walk around, admire the gardens and soak in the historical significance of this incredible place.
PT - Português 🇵🇹
Planeie a sua visita de manhã, se possível. A luz suave das primeiras horas realça a beleza da cantaria e cria uma atmosfera serena. Aproveite o tempo para caminhar, admirar os jardins e absorver o significado histórico deste lugar incrível.
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WELCOME to my blog on Hive. Here you will find several trips I take in Portugal and information about the main monuments, squares, streets, palaces...
Hug from PORTUGAL 🇵🇹🙏!
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Hug from Portugal 🇵🇹
You are very welcome @portugalcoin! it was well deserved. ☀️
Keep up the great work 💪
Thank you @jlinaresp and @visualshots.
Hug from Portugal 🇵🇹
Wow! the view of the monastery is beautiful, the gate has a nice vaulted design, the tower looks like the castles in fairy tales.
Greetings!
Thank you! I couldn't agree more the monastery truly looks like something out of a storybook. Its amazing!
Hug from Portugal 🇵🇹
The grandeur of the walls and buildings, the brightness of the sun and the beauty of nature, something that can be presented in a photo. You made it so amazing.
Thank you so much for your words.
Hug from Portugal 🇵🇹
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