The Dominican Monastery of Batalha was constructed as a fulfillment of a vow by King Joao to commemorate the victory over the Castilians at Aljubarrota. It is a classic masterpiece of Gothic art. A lot of monuments within the complex date from the reign of Joao I.

The Dominican Monastery of Batalha was constructed as a fulfillment of a vow by King Joao to commemorate the victory over the Castilians at Aljubarrota. It is a classic masterpiece of Gothic art. A lot of monuments within the complex date from the reign of Joao I. These monuments include a church, a chapter house, funeral chapel and the royal cloister.

The construction of the complex was briefly interrupted under the reign of King Duarte. The construction of his funerary chapel and that of his descendants was left unfinished after his death in 1438. The Dominican monastery was designed by an English architect called Master Huguet.

The chapel’s plan consists of octagonal space inserted inside a square. The magnificent ceiling features an 8-point star shaped lantern Noteworthy is the most dramatic feature within the ensemble – the huge tomb of Joao I and his wife Queen Philippa of Lancaster. This tomb is located in the center of the monastery and was the first tomb for husband and wife to be made in Portugal. The tomb features coats of arms of the Houses of Lancaster and Avis. The bays on the chapel contain the tombs of their sons, including the popular Prince Henry the Navigator.

The church is accessed through a main entry on the western façade. It is flanked on both sides by the sculptures of the 12 apostles who stand on the consoles. At its center, you will find the statue of Christ surrounded by Evangelists. Also to be seen inside the church is the six covings that have been decorated with sculptures of biblical kings and queens, prophets and angels holding musical instruments. The crowning of the beautiful sculptures is established by the statue of Virgin Mary.

The interior of the church is reminiscent of Gothic majesty. Its nave and aisles have been separated with thick pillars and crowned with plant motifs. The 16th century chancel windows are decorated with depictions of the Adoration of the Magi, the Light into Egypt and the Resurrection of Jesus. The windows project a diffused light that gives the church a feeling of spirituality.

Trust me; there is no better feeling than getting a chance to visit this ancient church and saying prayers where the Portuguese ancestors prayed.