Batalha Monastery

One of my favorite places in Portugal, the Monastery of Batalha is a magnificent example of Manueline architecture. Built to commemorate the Portuguese victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota, where 7,000 Portuguese soldiers triumphed over 31,000 Spaniards, it stands as a symbol of national pride and faith. Commissioned by King João I in gratitude to God for the victory, the monastery’s intricate carvings and elaborate tombs are truly breathtaking. Take your time to admire the exquisite details of the stonework — every corner tells a story. I highly recommend visiting this extraordinary site; it’s a masterpiece of history, art, and devotion.

Visit if you get the chance! Very majestic and pictures does not do it justice. Wow feeling throughout! Easy and free parking close by. Entrance to the chapel is free but rest of the monastery costs. Shops and restaurants nearby.

My favorite monument of central Portugal. The building is imposing though balanced, supremely ornate but not baroque and with plenty of spectacular corners including a “secret” unfinished chapel. Its vast expanse testify of bygone times when Portugal ruled half of the world.

A gorgeous monastery in a quaint town. I would argue its beauty rivals Köln’s cathedral, although it may not be as popular. It still has the rugged gothic feel like most churches of those days too. It was quiet, the staff was nice, and the movement through the monastery was structured in a way so that they made sure you got to see everything. The only thing I wish I could have gotten to see more was the unfinished chapels but it was blocked off for some reason. Not too sure why. Otherwise it was an amazing experience.

A very different church in Portugal - more akin to Notre Dame Gothic design. Beautiful stained glass reflections ona sunny day

The Monastery of Batalha is one of the most impressive monuments in Portugal and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Built to commemorate the Portuguese victory in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, it stands as both a historical and artistic treasure. The detailed stonework on the exterior is breathtaking, with intricate carvings and statues that show the extraordinary craftsmanship of the time. Inside, the high vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows create a serene and majestic atmosphere. One of the highlights is the unfinished chapels, an open sky area that adds a mysterious and unique charm to the visit. The monastery also houses the tomb of King João I and his family, making it a place deeply tied to the nation’s history. The entrance fee is fair given the scale and importance of the monument, and it is a must see destination for anyone exploring central Portugal.

A wonderful place — the architecture resembles the famous monastery in Lisbon, but the main difference is that there are almost no tourists here. It’s a beautiful and peaceful spot with a very calm atmosphere, and the staff are extremely friendly and welcoming.

Saw the monastery at night and was so impressed I had to return during the day. It has a different vibe but still stunning. Calm on a Monday, and free for Portuguese citizens. A must-see at least once!

The Batalha Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site. We stopped here on our Viking Cruises transfer from Lisbon to Porto and I'm so glad we did! It is intertwined with Portuguese history and is the burial place of the 14th to 15th century royalty the Portuguese call the "Illustrious Generation". These include King John I, his wife Philippa of Lancaster, and their children, including the fabled Prince Henry the Navigator. John I ensured the independence of Portugal. Prince Henry launched Portugal's Age of Discovery. They are buried in the octagonal Founder's Chapel. The Royal Cloisters lead from the church. They are an intricate Gothic wonder. The former Chapter House is now the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Adjacent is the Cloister of Dom Afonso V. It was added later, and is in a much simplified Gothic style. Lastly, a great surprise are the Unfinished Chapels, mortuary chapels commissioned by Duarte. Work was not taken up on them for nearly half a century, and by the time it was, the Manueline style had come into fashion under Manuel I. Thus, these eight chapel, open tot he sky are in a beautiful Manueline architecture. The monastery is simply a historical and visual treat.

This was stop on our personal driving trip in Portugal. It is UNESCO site and Rick Steve Europe trip episode. This monastery mainly to remember the soldiers who die in the war. The unique of this church is the gothic design of the church. It is beautiful stone work. They are very decorative. The entrance to the monastery is really beautiful. The visit will require two hours. This monastery is local at center region of the Portugal. One tip. If you decided to visit Batalha Monastery, Tomar Convent of Christ, Alcobaça Monastery, there is a combo ticket you can save some money. Just buy the combo ticket on the first place that you go for a seven day limited visit. The Batalha Monastery has many chamber. The sanctuary has tall columns to welcome you. Other chamber include tomb of King João I and other royals families. The courtyard has beautiful arches hallway. Each contain beautiful arch way entrance to garden. There is war chamber have displayed the medal, uniform, emblem, other war items. I love the last section we have visited. It is call the unfinished chapel. The column is beautifully crafted. It is one of the most beautiful thing I see in large scale. Do not miss that. It entrance is at the outside. So after you have finished everything inside don't forget to go to this no roof chapel.

This was a great stop on our tour. Amazing architecture and not too crowded. The Monastery is pretty amazing but the unfinished chapel is also well worth seeing. It's beautiful and full of history- but unlike some places, you don't feel rushed and your not crushed in with a million other tourists. I don't know why now- I liked this place way more than Coimbra, for example, which had a ton of people. Go here if you're in the area- you will not be sorry.

While visiting family in Portugal we took a trip to Batalha to visit the city and the monastery. This beautiful building built in 1386 is an incredible attraction and the history of it is unique. We ended up walking into the monastery and we didn't leave for hours. The architecture here is beautiful and the rear of the monastery is unfinished. This section of the building provides for unique photo opportunities which was a plus. After spending some time here we ended up walking into town to shop and we had some lunch at a cafe. This is a great tourist attraction and a must see for anyone visiting the area.

The oldest monastery as they say, it wasnt finish since they prefer to do other cities.The oldest gothic cathedral, even the door in front n its entrance u can see the different apostles carvings which are made to perfection, brilliant n amazing artist..indeed. U can see each detail, even the fruits n animals ... U will b awe n admiration..