Batalha Monastery

This stop was amazing. My only point of feedback, they didn't make it clear at the exit of the imperfect chapel that it *was* the end, so we walked through the door without getting all the pictures we would have taken and suddenly we were completely outside and didn't get to go in like some of the other visitors. The cloisters were beautiful.

Didn't have to pay to enter (not sure why) 🤔 on a Sunday morning. Amazing Gothic architecture with high sweeping ceilings, intricate stained glass windows 🪟 and carvings. Detailed descriptions of the various figures and designs throughout. Expect to spend an hour exploring the whole compound.

What an interesting place to visit. It's the exact equivalent of Battle Abbey in the UK (the town name - Batalha -means Battle. This was the site of the key battle which established the nation of Portugal, built by the grateful king to the glory of God in thanks. Building took over 250 years until, I guess, they lost interest! Not expensive - €7.5 for 65+ - very nicely restored. Not a huge amount of printed info but helpful staff, good free WiFi and some sort of audio guide (which we didn't try).

Our visit to Batalha Monastery was an extraordinary family experience, one that we will cherish for years to come. Nestled in the charming town of Batalha, this UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a magnificent testament to Gothic architecture and Portuguese history. Upon arriving, we were immediately struck by the monastery’s grandeur. The intricate details of the facade, with its ornate carvings and towering spires, left us in awe. As we stepped inside, the vast, serene interior enveloped us in a sense of peace and reverence. The soaring ceilings, elegant arches, and stained glass windows created an atmosphere that was both humbling and inspiring. One of the highlights of our visit was the Founder's Chapel, where we marveled at the tombs of King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster, surrounded by statues of their children. The sense of history was palpable, and we felt a deep connection to Portugal’s past. The Unfinished Chapels were another unforgettable part of our experience. Walking through these open-air chapels, with their beautifully sculpted, yet incomplete arches, was like stepping into a dream. The blend of Gothic and Manueline styles showcased the incredible craftsmanship of the time. We also took time to explore the Cloisters of King João I, a tranquil and beautiful area that offered a moment of reflection amidst the stunning architecture. The gardens and the delicate stonework of the cloisters were truly mesmerizing. Throughout our visit, we were captivated by the stories and history that the Batalha Monastery holds. It was a perfect educational experience for our family, allowing us to learn and appreciate Portugal’s rich cultural heritage together. Overall, our trip to Batalha Monastery was a remarkable journey through time, filled with awe-inspiring sights and profound moments of connection. It is a destination that we highly recommend to anyone visiting Portugal. We left with our hearts full, and our minds enriched, already planning our next historical adventure.

If you want to travel back in time this is the place to go to. Perfect example of the Portuguese Gothic architecture! The 10 Euros that they charge to access the inside are well worth it. Probably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Portugal.

I recently visited the Batalha Monastery, and it was an unforgettable experience. The Gothic architecture is absolutely stunning, with intricate details and impressive stonework throughout. The monastery is rich in history, and walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time. The peaceful atmosphere and the grandeur of the building make it a perfect spot for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a beautiful and serene place to visit. Highly recommended for a day trip!

Was able to purchase advanced tickets online at a discount from a travel agency (although did have to print them out). Another UNESCO world heritage site and a great attraction with lots of unique artifacts.

Fantastic architecture worth a visit! This UNESCO heritage site is in mainly gothic style and houses the tombs of notable people such as King Joao I, Queen Philippa of Lancaster and Infante d'Henrique (Henry the Navigator). You can buy tickets at the counter or scan a QR code to buy tickets online. That gives you access to four sections (chapel of the founder, cloister, upper floor of the cloister and unfinished chapel). Some of the explanations are in Portuguese but you can just use Google translate to read.

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..