During your trip to Portugal, be sure to make the time for at least a daytrip to Batalha to see the stunning Batalha MonasteryOpens in a new window, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s greatest architectural highlights. Stay overnight to make the most of the town’s other historic attractions and to explore the pretty areas nearby.
When you see the enormous Batalha Monastery in real life it is easy to imagine how building work was ongoing on this remarkable landmark for around 200 years. Admire its dramatic Gothic spires from a distance and then come closer to wonder at its ornately detailed stonework and grand doors and windows. The building was designed in celebration of Portugal’s victory in the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota, in which they vanquished the Castilians.
Many of the spaces attached to the monastery are works of art in their own right. Take in the detail of the intricate carvings in the Cloister of Royals and see the tombs of King João I of Portugal and his wife in the Chapel of Founders. Enjoy some fresh air in the carefully tended gardens outside.
Visit the nearby Igreja Matriz da Batalha. This tiny, pretty white church offers the perfect contrast to the sprawling grandeur of the monastery. It is also very close to the excellent Museu da Comunidade Concelhia da Batalha. Come to this small but well-resourced museum for an in-depth overview of the region’s history, going back to prehistoric times.
Drive to Batalha from Lisbon in around 1.5 hours. Stay in Batalha itself or find accommodations in one of the charming coastal towns close by, such as Nazaré, Fátima or Alcobaça. Leave plenty of time to head out into the gorgeous hills to the south of Batalha, which are part of the huge green space of the Parque Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros. End each evening with a glass of one of the delicious wines that this area is famous for.
