The history of the monastery is closely linked to the founding of the Portuguese monarchy. Apparently Alfonso Henriques declared King Afonso I in 1139; he attributed his political success to the crusaders. Alcobaca was granted to the Cistercians in recognition of their valor in conquering Santarem in 1152.

The Santa Maria d’Alcobaca Monastery in the north of Portugal’s capital Lisbon was founded in the 12th century by King Alfonso I. The Monastery, by virtue of its size, architectural style and beauty of material used is a Cistercian Gothic masterpiece.

The monastery bears witness to the spread of the Cistercian Gothic art that developed in Burgundy. It brought to fore the Cistercian’s Order style that had first featured in the Tombs of Dom Pedro and Dona Ines de Castro. Apparently, these 2 tombs also boast the tag of being the most beautiful Gothic funerary sculptures.

The monastery features the great Cistercian infrastructure including hydraulic systems and functional buildings. The monastery's 18th century kitchen adds its aesthetic value. The buildings in the complex that date back to the medieval times include the monk’s room, the cloister and lavabo, the chapter room, dormitory and a parlor

The history of the monastery is closely linked to the founding of the Portuguese monarchy. Apparently, when  Alfonso Henriques declared King Afonso I in 1139; he attributed his political success to the crusaders. Alcobaca was granted to the Cistercians in recognition of their valor in conquering Santarem in 1152. In the charter, they were also allowed to colonize and work in the surrounding lands. By 1153, the White Monks had already established themselves in the area.

Irrespective of the offensive that was led by Al-Mansoor in the end of 12th century, the royal establishment continued to thrive. In the 13th century an abbey church was laid out as well as monastic buildings. The abbeys political influence grew with time to encompass total of 13 towns, 4 seaports, and 2 castles. Within his jurisdiction, there were also fertile lands that helped feed his subjects. Much later during the reign of Joao I to Joao IV the abbot was appointed to become a council member of Grand Almoner and the Lord Protector of the Border.

Among the points of interest within the establishment include;

  • The Manueline sacristy of the Infante Dom Afonso
  • The upper cloisters of João do Castilho
  • The facade and main part of the Baroque lodgings of Friar João Turriano (1702)
  • The King's Room
  • Tombs of Inés de Castro and Dom Pedro (Peter I)

All these attractions and points of interest signify a place that has a lot of history. Perhaps this is the reason why the monastery was inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1989. It also happens to be a popular tourist destination, especially among the Christian faithful.