Second day of our stay at Alcobaca, we headed out to see Batalha Monastery right after a good breakfast. From our research on the internet, we learnt that half a days sight seeing is adequate for Batalha Monastery. There are frequent buses from Alcobaca to Batalha. So we boarded one and excited to see another great Monastery...
The distance was about 22 kms. in the north westerly direction, and the bus stop is quite close to Batalha monastery. As you are nearing the destination, you will see the spires and towers looming into the sky and your pulse quickens.
As per UNESCO.org:
The Monastery of the Dominicans of Batalha was built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. It was to be the Portuguese monarchy's main building project for the next two centuries. Here a highly original, national Gothic style evolved, profoundly influenced by Manueline art, as demonstrated by its masterpiece, the Royal Cloister.
Constructed in fulfilment of a vow by King João to commemorate the victory over the Castilians at Aljubarrota (15 August 1385), the Dominican Monastery of Batalha, in the centre of Portugal, is one of the masterpieces of Gothic art. The greater part of the monumental complex dates from the reign of João I (1385-1433), when the church (finished in 1416), the royal cloister, the chapter-house, and the funeral chapel of the founder were constructed.
Beautiful Keystones in the roof Tomb of John and Philippa
The distance was about 22 kms. in the north westerly direction, and the bus stop is quite close to Batalha monastery. As you are nearing the destination, you will see the spires and towers looming into the sky and your pulse quickens.
As per UNESCO.org:
The Monastery of the Dominicans of Batalha was built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. It was to be the Portuguese monarchy's main building project for the next two centuries. Here a highly original, national Gothic style evolved, profoundly influenced by Manueline art, as demonstrated by its masterpiece, the Royal Cloister.
Constructed in fulfilment of a vow by King João to commemorate the victory over the Castilians at Aljubarrota (15 August 1385), the Dominican Monastery of Batalha, in the centre of Portugal, is one of the masterpieces of Gothic art. The greater part of the monumental complex dates from the reign of João I (1385-1433), when the church (finished in 1416), the royal cloister, the chapter-house, and the funeral chapel of the founder were constructed.
Front view of the monastery
Unfinished chapels
It was the first time I was the flying buttresses for real. We had studied them I history of architecture while in college. This was a real treat
Founder's chapel
Buttresses supporting the external wall
Main entrance Statues of Apostles on entrance portal
Built of limestone, originally, with time, became yellow ochre.
Main entrance from inside Looking at the altar
It is long and narrow church, measuring 22m in length and 32.4m in height. The cluster columns are a feast to the eyes.
Stained glass window Compound Cluster columns and ribbed vaulted roof
King John 1 Cloisters of Monastery
Exquisite Tracery work in arches in the cloisters of the monastery, over looking the central courtyard.
Manueline arches in Unfinished chapels Portal of the Unfinished Chapels
A very well maintained architectural wonder, it is a must visit place if you are visiting Portugal. Do keep half a day for the enjoyment of the beauty and serenity of this monastery at Batalha.
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