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Monastery · Batalha, Leiria
Mosteiro da Batalha
Gothic monastery begun in 1386 to celebrate the victory at Aljubarrota, with the Founder’s Chapel—where D. João I and Infante D. Henrique rest—the Royal Cloister and the Capelas Imperfeitas. A World Heritage Site since 1983.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mosteiro da Batalha
The Mosteiro de Santa Maria da Vitória, known as the Mosteiro da Batalha, was commissioned by King D. João I to fulfil a vow made before the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, when Portugal defeated Castile and secured its independence. Work began in 1386 and continued for more than a century.
The Founder’s Chapel houses the tombs of D. João I and Queen Filipa de Lencastre, holding hands, and those of their children, including Infante D. Henrique. The Royal Cloister blends Gothic and Manueline styles, with stone lacework in the arcades.
In the Chapter House, with a vault spanning about 19 metres without a central column, is the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, containing the remains of two Portuguese soldiers killed in World War I, and guarded by a sentinel.
The Capelas Imperfeitas, an octagonal pantheon that never received a roof, feature a richly carved Manueline portal and remain open to the sky. The monastery has been a World Heritage Site since 1983.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From an hour and a half to two hours.
Best time
During the day; in sunny weather light streams through the church's stained glass. Check the opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is in the centre of Batalha, a few minutes' walk from the bus terminal.
Tip
Entrance to the church is free; tickets cover the cloister, the Chapter House and the Capelas Imperfeitas. See the changing of the guard at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mosteiro da Batalha
Why was the Mosteiro da Batalha built?
To fulfil King D. João I's vow after the victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385.
Who is buried in the Founder’s Chapel?
D. João I, Queen Filipa de Lencastre and their children, including Infante D. Henrique.
What are the Capelas Imperfeitas?
An unfinished octagonal pantheon, without a roof, with a Manueline portal.
What is the Unknown Soldier?
A tomb in the Chapter House containing two Portuguese soldiers killed in World War I.