Exploring 50 Years of Leica in Portugal: A Historical Timeline

Journey through time as we celebrate half a century of Leica’s presence in Portugal. This historical timeline will take you from the beginnings of 1973 to the thriving partnership that continues today.

1973 – A New Beginning

Rising production costs in Germany prompted Ernst Leitz Wetzlar optics factory to seek supplementary locations in Europe. The town of Vila Nova de Famalicão in northern Portugal was chosen, known for its tradition of precision mechanics. In June 1973, the initial phase began, manufacturing components for microscopes and cameras.

1976 – Expansion

The production of Trinovid binoculars commenced, followed by the assembly of the iconic Leica R3 camera. The product range steadily grew, including the pre-assembly of the legendary Leica M6 and later the Leica R8.

2004 – Growth Continues

The Portuguese facility expanded to cover an area of 21,000 m2, showcasing Leica’s commitment to the region.

2008 – A Milestone

The foundation stone was laid for the construction of the current complex, representing an investment of 23 million euros. The modern facility was inaugurated on 21 March 2013.

2013 – A New Chapter

The facility in Vila Nova de Famalicão became fully operational, housing various departments, including an Engineering department. Leica continued to grow, producing cutting-edge optical products for wildlife observation and hunting.

2016 – A Leica Store Opens

On 1 December 2016, a Leica Store, along with an additional gallery and academy, opened in Porto’s historic Excelsior Café building, adding to Leica’s presence in Portugal.

2017 – Expanding Expertise

Leica Customer Care Sport Optics expertise and Engineering competences were established at the Vila Nova de Famalicão factory, increasing the added value and level of innovation.

2023 – A Half-Century Celebration

This year marks the celebration of 50 years of successful collaboration between Wetzlar and Famalicão. The exhibition “From Famalicão to the World: 50 Years of Leica in Portugal,” currently on display at Casa das Artes, offers a glimpse into the rich history of this partnership. It also comes with a special edition magazine that delves into the facets of five decades of joint effort.