Mosteiro de Leça do Balio - Matosinhos, Portugal - Abbeys, Convents and Monasteries on Waymarking.com

This site's religious origins date back to the 10th century when a mixed convent for both nuns and monks was founded by the Order of St. Benedict and dedicated to Salvador. In the 12th century, the monastery was donated to the Order of the Hospital by queen Teresa simultaneously acquiring hunting rights. These were subsequently confirmed by king Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, and his successors.

Major construction work was carried out in the 14th century by Brother Estevão Vasques Pimentel resulting in the monastery that has survived until today. Its gothic appearance takes on a defensive nature given the battlements and the tall, quadrangular tower representing a good example of artistic transition from Romanesque to Gothic. After this rebuilding, the church was rededicated to Our Lady of Incarnation. In 1372, the church hosted the royal wedding between king Fernando and Leonor Teles.

From: (visit link)

Full name of the abbey/monastery/convent: Mosteiro de Leça do Balio Address: Leça do Balio Matosinhos, Porto Portugal Religious affiliation: Catolica Date founded/constructed: 10th century Web Site: [Web Link] Status of Use: Converted to Other Use

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Date Logged Log User Rating   01/29/2011 B_M_A visited it