Live and breathe music in Leiria!

Several innovative projects have helped the city gain national and international visibility, which, along with other criteria, has contributed to its being named a UNESCO Creative City of Music.

Concerts for Babies, Aqui Contigo, and Opera in Prison are some examples of initiatives run in Leiria that contribute to social equality, inclusion, and human dignity and are currently being replicated worldwide. Community participation and involvement in music are thus highlighted, with an emphasis placed on the inclusion of diverse groups and the promotion of access to music for all. Cultural events such as Goth music festival Extramuralhas (usually held in August), the A Porta festival (first edition in October 2014), and Music in Leiria reflect the dynamism and involvement of the entire community in the city's commitment to cultural diversity in music, respecting and celebrating different musical styles.

The Extramuralhas (literally “outside the walls” in Portuguese)festival was initially called Entremuralhas (“between the walls”), as the concerts took place exclusively within the Castle walls. However, when the monument underwent renewal works, the organisation was forced to move events to other areas of the city, thus increasing the number of bands able to perform and expanding the dissemination and international projection of the city as a place accepting of differences and bold aesthetics. The festival is currently one of the most notable symbols of Leiria's music scene.

The Music in Leiria festival kicked off with classical music, but also spans other musical genres such as jazz, as well as other artistic expression, such as dance.

Leiria also has a long tradition of philharmonic bands (being home to 11 philharmonic bands, some of which are centuries old), choirs and folkloric groups, in addition to being the birthplace of several rock, pop, and jazz bands, as well as others that play other musical genres. The city provides opportunities for people of all ages to learn musical skills, promoting the learning and development of local talents, with music being a key part of the cultural and creative industries, contributing to the city’s sustainable economic development.

Perhaps this love for the arts in general, and music in particular, can be traced back to King Dinis of Portugal (1261-1325), the troubadour king. According to historic accounts, Leiria Castle set the scene for the king to compose the Cantigas de Amigo (literally "friend songs"), which left their mark on Galician/Portuguese lyric poetry.

Leiria serenades its visitors!