Portugal - Discover <b>Leiria (Portugal)</b>

Discover Leiria (Portugal)


Leiria is a city in the Centro Region of Portugal. It is the capital of Leiria District. The population in 2011 was 126,874, in an area of 547. 66 km². The city was founded by the Romans. The name Leiria derives from the Latin word legere, meaning "to read". The city became an important center of culture during the Middle Ages, and was the birthplace of several Portuguese kings. It is located on the banks of the Rio Lis and has a well-preserved medieval castle. Leiria is a popular tourist destination and it was the European Capital of Culture in 2012.