243 Leiria

Welcome to Leiria

– where medieval history, Atlantic traditions, and everyday Portuguese life come together.

Nestled between Lisbon and Porto, Leiria is one of central Portugal’s most inviting cities, a place where history rises above the rooftops and daily life moves at a relaxed, local rhythm. Overlooking it all, the majestic Leiria Castle has guarded the city for centuries, its stone towers offering sweeping views across red-tiled roofs, church spires, and the green valley shaped by the Lis River. Below, elegant squares, shaded cafés, and lively pedestrian streets give the old town a warm and authentic charm.

Leiria has long been connected to creativity, learning, and renewal. During the reign of King Dinis, the nearby Leiria Pine Forest was expanded to provide timber for the ships that would later support Portugal’s maritime age, linking this quiet region to the country’s great voyages. Today, that same sense of enterprise lives on in cultural venues, contemporary events, student life, and restored historic spaces where the past and present meet naturally.

The city also offers a softer, everyday side of Portugal. Markets, bakeries, tiled façades, and riverside walks create a rhythm that feels less hurried than the larger cities, while local restaurants and cafés invite visitors to settle in rather than simply pass through. Leiria does not overwhelm with spectacle; it reveals itself through details, from castle walls glowing at sunset to narrow streets opening suddenly onto peaceful squares.

Beyond the city, the surrounding region adds remarkable variety. The golden beaches of the Atlantic are within easy reach, including the dramatic coast around Nazaré, while nearby landmarks such as the Monastery of Batalha, the sanctuary of Fátima, and traditional villages show the cultural depth of central Portugal. This makes Leiria an ideal base for exploring a landscape where medieval heritage, ocean air, pine forests, and limestone hills all sit close together.

From the illuminated castle above the town to evenings spent beneath café terraces in the historic center, Leiria quietly rewards those who take the time to know it. It is a city of gentle confidence, rich surroundings, and understated beauty, one of Portugal’s most charming places between the mountains and the sea.

Highlights

⇧ Leiria Castle

Leiria Castle, perched high above the city, is Leiria’s most iconic landmark and one of Portugal’s finest medieval fortresses. Built in the 12th century, its stone walls, towers, and royal palace offer sweeping views across the city and surrounding countryside.

Leiria Cathedral

Leiria Cathedral is a graceful Renaissance church built in the 16th century in the heart of the old town. Its elegant interior and hilltop setting make it one of the city's most important religious and architectural landmarks.

Rodrigues Lobo Square

Rodrigues Lobo Square is the lively centerpiece of Leiria’s historic center, surrounded by colorful buildings, cafés, and arcaded façades. Named after the local poet Francisco Rodrigues Lobo, it is a popular gathering place throughout the year.

Lis River and Riverside Promenade

The Lis River flows through the heart of Leiria, where landscaped promenades, bridges, and cafés create one of the city's most pleasant public spaces. The riverside is especially popular for walking, cycling, and outdoor events.

Paper Mill Museum

Moinho do Papel is a restored 15th-century paper mill that demonstrates the traditional production of paper, flour, and olive oil using water power. It offers a fascinating insight into one of Leiria’s oldest industries.

Leiria Pine Forest

The Pinhal de Leiria is a vast pine forest originally planted in the 13th century to supply timber for Portugal’s naval fleet during the Age of Discovery. Today it provides peaceful woodland trails stretching towards the Atlantic coast.

São Pedro de Moel

São Pedro de Moel is a charming seaside village just west of Leiria, known for its sandy beach, rugged cliffs, and picturesque lighthouse. Its scenic coastline makes it one of the region’s favorite escapes.

Batalha Monastery

The Monastery of Batalha, located just south of Leiria, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s greatest Gothic masterpieces. Built to commemorate the Battle of Aljubarrota, it is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and magnificent architecture.

Mira de Aire Caves

The Mira de Aire Caves, less than an hour from Leiria, are Portugal’s largest cave system, extending deep beneath the limestone hills. Visitors descend into spectacular chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, underground lakes, and illuminated rock formations.

Venue and Presenters

Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa

This multi-purpose stadium in Leiria was built for UEFA Euro 2004 and is celebrated for its dramatic setting be-tween two former limestone quarries. With its distinctive architecture and open design, it hosts football matches, concerts, and major events in one of Portugal’s most unique sporting venues.

Lucía Moniz

A gifted actress and singer, who gained international recognition through film while maintaining a successful music career in Portugal. Known for her warm stage presence and versatile talent, she effortlessly combines pop music, acting, and live performance.

Jorge Gabriel

A familiar face on Portuguese television, who has spent decades hosting some of the country's most popular entertainment and daytime programmes. With his approachable style and natural charisma, he remains one of Portugal’s best-known and most trusted presenters.

Joana Marques

A sharp-witted radio host, comedian, and writer, who is celebrated for her intelligent humor and quick observations on everyday life. Through radio, television, and bestselling books, she has become one of Portugal’s most distinctive and influential media personalities.

Patron Saint of Global Music 243

It's already been a year since we said goodbye and so long to one of our dear family members: The encredibly kind and music loving Raquel.

Though Raquel represented Italy for most of her Global Music career, she was in fact Portuguese, and as we return to her home country for GM243, it's only fitting that we reminisce about her.

There is no doubt that she is still following our contest, wherever she is, looking down at Leiria and singing along to the great tunes. She will forever love Global Music and we her ❤️

She is our patron saint - in Leiria and in all eternity.

Dance in the clouds, our angel.

Participants

39 countries

from Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and Oceania will be on stage in Leiria

Returning countries

Nepal and Turkey

Withdrawing countries

Cambodia

Returning Artists

11th participation

Kygo / 13th place

6th participation

Max Barskih / 4th place

5th participation

Ilma Karahmet / 4th place
Oscar and the Wolf / GM Champion

4th participation

Antonia Gigovska / GM Champion
Crimer / GM Champion
Milica Pavlovic / 4th place
Noa Kirel / 4th place

3rd participation

Álvaro de Luna / GM Champion

2nd participation

Aiello / Semi Finalist
Danny Vera / 12th place
Jude York / 12th place
Liam Payne / Bronze Medallist
Manifest / 25th place
Mara Sattei / Semi Finalist
Nickless / Semi Finalist
Roméo Elvis / 25th place