Batalha Monastery: A Monument of Portuguese Gothic Architecture
The Batalha Monastery, located in the municipality of Batalha in the district of Leiria in Portugal, is a breathtaking monument of Gothic architecture. This stunning monastery was built in the 14th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is famous for its unique blend of architectural styles, from the Manueline style to the more traditional Gothic style, making it a must-see destination for tourists.
History of Batalha Monastery
The Batalha Monastery was built in the 14th century to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese against the Castilians in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. It was commissioned by King João I of Portugal, and construction began in 1386 and was completed in the 15th century.
The monastery is an important example of Portuguese Gothic architecture, as it combines the traditional Gothic style with the Manueline style, which is a unique Portuguese variant of the Gothic style. The monastery is also notable for its massive scale and the many sculptures and carvings that decorate its various buildings.
What to See at Batalha Monastery
Batalha Monastery is an incredible place to explore, with many stunning features that are sure to leave visitors in awe. Here are some of the top attractions at the monastery:
- The Founder’s Chapel: This chapel is one of the most impressive structures at the monastery. It was built in the 15th century and is decorated with exquisite Manueline carvings.
- The Royal Cloister: The Royal Cloister is an enclosed courtyard and one of the most impressive parts of the monastery. It is bordered by two rows of ornate arcades and is decorated with many sculptures and carvings.
- The Unfinished Chapels: The Unfinished Chapels of the monastery are a testament to the ambition of its builders. They were meant to be the largest chapels in the monastery but were never completed due to a lack of funds.
- The Chapter House: The Chapter House is a large hall that was used for meetings of the Monastery’s religious order. It is decorated with many sculptures and carvings and is one of the most impressive parts of the monastery.
- The Refectory: The Refectory is a large dining hall where the monks would eat their meals. It is decorated with many sculptures and carvings and is one of the most impressive parts of the monastery.
Visiting Batalha Monastery
Batalha Monastery is open to visitors every day from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Admission is €7 for adults, €3.50 for children, and free for children under 12.
The monastery is easily accessible by car and is located just an hour from Lisbon. There is also an extensive network of buses and trains that runs between Lisbon and Batalha, making it easy to visit the monastery from the city.
Conclusion
Batalha Monastery is an incredible monument of Portuguese Gothic architecture. Built in the 14th century, it is famous for its blend of Gothic and Manueline styles and its many ornate sculptures and carvings. The monastery is an incredible place to explore and is a must-see for anyone visiting Portugal.