Monastery of Leça do Balio

The Monastery of Leça do Balio, headquarters of the Livraria Lello Foundation, stands as a vibrant link between the past and the future. Nestled on the banks of the Leça River, this national monument has roots dating back to the Roman Era, holding a pivotal role in Portugal's rich history. Today, it plays a crucial part in the Foundation's ambitious mission: empowering people to read the world.

With over two thousand years of historical significance, the site reveals traces from the Roman Era, including an altar dedicated to the god Jupiter.

Archs of the Monastery of Leça do Balio's Cloister

Dona Teresa donated it to the Order of the Knights of St. John, bestowing upon the Monastery a crucial role in Portuguese history.

It served as the venue for the royal wedding of D. Fernando and D. Leonor Teles and the refuge of D. Miguel during the Siege of Porto.

Statue of D. Fernando and D. Leonor Teles in front of the church

The 14th-century Gothic construction, now restored, has held the status of a National Monument since 1910.

Acquired by Lionesa Group in 2016, the Monastery underwent a restoration led by architects Álvaro Siza Vieira and Sidónio Pardal.

The Monastery now serves as the headquarters of the Livraria Lello Foundation, featuring an exhibition space, an auditorium, a gastronomy area, and a garden.

Once forgotten, the Monastery has transformed into a center of cultural rebirth, integrating spirituality into a 21st-century artistic expression. From this basis, the Livraria Lello Foundation embarks on its bold mission.

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Exhibition
Space

Exterior of the Monastery of Leça do Balio

Immerse yourself in dedicated programming with the unique exhibition spaces. Experience a special visit to the iconic Chapter Room.

Garden of
Thought

Explore 4 hectares of a garden that seeks to cultivate ideas. The Garden of Though, with 14 sculptures inspired by universal concepts such as love and vigilance seamlessly intertwines education and performing arts.

Authors'
Kitchen

Indulge in the eighth and most sensory form of art, high cuisine. Our intimate kitchen space features a single communal table for up to 16 people, led by guest chef-artists. Each meal is transformed into a masterpiece.

Auditorium

Enter a multidisciplinary space with a capacity for 90 people. The Auditorium is set to host conferences, debates, and corporate meetings - an intimate atmosphere that transcends creative boundaries.

TESTEMONIALS

"I was asked to design a building project that would make visible, that would mark the importance of Leça do Balio in the Way of Saint James. A new landmark in the building that occupies part of a geometric garden belonging to the monastery and has a connection with the church itself."

Álvaro Siza Vieira,
Architect, 2021

Picture of the Landscape Architect Sidónio Pardal

"We are dedicated to expanding the gardens, fostering a harmonious ensemble where the monastery and its surroundings seamlessly unite, resulting in an inviting and enriched environment. Our ambition extends beyond borders, aiming to establish it as a premier global reference. Our vision is to mold it into a destination worthy of exploration—a haven where visitors not only discover cultural richness but also find a retreat for comfort and well-being."

Sidónio Pardal,
Landscape Architect, 2021