Batalha Monastery
From its full name, Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, also known as Monastery of Batalha is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful works of Portuguese and even European architecture.
King João I, or former Master of Avis, had promised that if he won the Battle of Aljubarrota, he would build an exceptional monument. The battle took place in August 1385 and assured the Master of Avis the throne of the Portuguese court. He would become King D. João I.
The construction lasted more than 150 years, having had several phases. As it lasted so long, the monument has Gothic influences, most of it, but also Manueline and some Renaissance details. The monument includes a church, two cloisters and two royal pantheons, in addition to the Founder’s Chapel and the Imperfect Chapels.
The monastery also has the most important nucleus of Portuguese medieval stained glass, which can be admired in the Main Chapel and in the Chapter Room. It is possible to visit the dormitory, as well as the refectory and kitchen of the monastery, in addition to the chapels and cloisters.
The Monastery of Batalha is currently managed by the Directorate-General for Cultural Heritage, assuming itself as a tourist, cultural and devotional space.
It was considered a National Monument and has been part of the World Heritage Site defined by UNESCO (United Nations) since 1983. Many consider it one of the most fascinating places on the Iberian Peninsula.