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Mosteiro da Batalha | Monastery of the Battle
Batalha Monastery, or mosteiro da batalha, was erected to honor Portugal's triumph over the Castilians at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. It became the primary architectural endeavor of the Portuguese monarchy for two centuries. Its unique national Gothic style, heavily influenced by Manueline art, is showcased in its masterpiece, the Royal Cloister.
Things to know before booking your tickets to Batalha Monastery
Main Church Visit: Visiting the main church is free, showcasing its high vaulted ceilings and original stained glass windows. However, to truly experience the monastery's magic, paid sections must be explored.
Paid Sections Experience: For €7.50, entrance grants access to the Founders Chapel, two cloisters, and the unfinished chapel, along with a complimentary audio guide.
Monastery Exploration Time: A minimum of two hours is required to fully explore the monastery, encompassing the exterior, church, cloisters, and chapels. Coach tours typically allow only enough time for the exterior and church nave.
Extended Visit to Batalha: Consider a day trip to Batalha for a comprehensive exploration of the entire complex, including a visit to the informative Fundacao Batalha de Aljubarrota museum. Batalha offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for an overnight stay.
Capelas Imperfeitas: Admission to the 'Unfinished' chapel requires a ticket and typically marks the conclusion of the monastery tour.
Batalha Monastery highlights
Nuno Álvares Pereira
Most visitors arrive by coach, catching their first glimpse of the monastery across Largo Do Mosteiro. At the plaza's center stands a statue of Nuno Álvares Pereira, the military genius credited with securing Portugal's independence after the battle of Aljubarrota.
The Gothic Church
Entering the church, built in the 14th century by Architect Huguet, is free. Tickets for further exploration can be purchased inside. The narrow church appears even taller (32.4m in height vs. 22m in width), impressively simple with beautiful carvings and stained-glass windows.
The Founder’s Chapel (Capela de Fundador)
At the nave's end, the Founder’s chapel, a 15th-century pantheon of King Joao I, features the collapsed pyramidal roof post-1755 Earthquake. The center holds the Tomb of King Joao I and Philippa de Lancaster, adorned with statues. Notable tombs include Henry the Navigator's, born in 1394.
Cloisters
The tour proceeds to the cloisters, later additions to the church. The Claustro Real (Royal Cloister) blends Gothic arches with Manueline lattice stonework, while the Claustro Dom Afonso V (Cloister of King Afonso V) follows conventional medieval designs, more austere in appearance.
Charter House
On the Claustro Real's eastern side, the Sala do Capitulo (Charter House) served for meetings and religious discussions. Impressive for medieval architecture, it spans 19m unsupported. Originally built with concern over collapse, only convicted criminals were employed. Now, it houses a memorial to the Unknown Soldier.
Unfinished Chapels
The final stage involves visiting the unfinished chapel (Capelas Imperfeitas) behind the main church. Often missed, it requires crossing Largo Infante Dom Henrique. Commissioned by Duarte I for royal burials, it remains incomplete due to the king's premature death in 1438 and the architect's demise. An early example of Manueline architecture, it features elaborate stone carving on pillars and houses King Duarte’s tomb.
Plan your visit to Batalha Monastery
16th October to 31st March: From 09.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. (last admission at 5.30 p.m.)
1st April to 15th October: From 09.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. (last admission 6.00 p.m.)
The Monastery’s opening hours may be extended by means of advanced booking, subject to conditions.
Closed: 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May and 25 December
Address: Largo Infante Dom Henrique, 2440-109 Batalha, Portugal
Interurban bus services (Largo 14 de Agosto, next to the Parish Church)
Ticket office: The ticket office is located near the main entrance of the monastery. Visitors can purchase tickets to visit the church, the cloisters, the Founder's Chapel, and the unfinished chapels.
Information desk: The information desk is located near the ticket office. Visitors can ask questions about the monastery, get maps and brochures, and purchase souvenirs.
Restrooms: Restrooms are located near the ticket office and in the cloisters.
Bookshop: The bookshop sells books, postcards, and other souvenirs related to the monastery.
Cafeteria: The cafeteria is located near the cloisters and serves drinks, snacks, and light meals.
The monastery is partially accessible to visitors with disabilities. There is a ramp leading to the main entrance, and some of the rooms on the ground floor are accessible by wheelchair.
Mosteiro do Leitão (Batalha): located just steps from the monastery, this restaurant is known for its delicious pastries and light meals. They offer a variety of breads, cakes, and savory snacks, as well as a selection of hot and cold drinks. It's a great place to grab a quick bite before or after exploring the monastery.
Solar do Marquês:housed in a 17th-century palace Solar offers a fine dining experience. The menu features traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist, and the wine list is extensive. The restaurant has a beautiful garden setting, making it a perfect place for a special occasion.
Cantinho do Marquês:This family-run restaurant serves up hearty Portuguese home cooking. The menu includes dishes like grilled fish, stews, and roast meats. The restaurant is also known for its friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices.
Food and drink:
Food and drink are not allowed inside the monastery, except for water in sealed containers.
There are cafes and restaurants located near the monastery where you can purchase food and drinks.
Dress Code:
There is no formal dress code, but please dress modestly and respectfully.
Avoid wearing swimwear, tank tops, or other revealing clothing.
Luggage and bags:
Large bags and luggage are not allowed inside the monastery.
Lockers are available for storing your belongings.
Alcobaça Monastery: Founded in the 12th century, this Cistercian masterpiece embodies Portugal's rich past. Witness its soaring Gothic architecture, serene cloisters, and the poignant tombs of King Pedro and Inês de Castro, a love story defying even death. Immerse yourself in the monastery's peaceful ambiance and unravel its centuries-old secrets.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima: Witness the immense white basilica rising against the hills, a poignant reminder of the Virgin Mary's apparition. Millions of pilgrims flock here year-round, seeking solace and spiritual renewal. Explore the expansive prayer grounds, museums, and historical sites, experiencing the power of faith and its global impact.
Castelo de Leiria: Perched atop a hill overlooking the city of Leiria, the Castelo de Leiria is a captivating monument that tells the story of Portugal's past. Built in the 12th century by King Afonso Henriques, the castle served as a royal residence, a military fortress, and a prison.
Visitors tips
Seek the Manueline marvels: Don't just admire the intricate Manueline style; decipher its symbolic language. Look for nautical motifs representing Portugal's Age of Discovery, and spot hidden representations of King Manuel I's personal motto.
Descend into the Founder's Chapel: Dive deep into the history of the monastery. This subterranean chapel, rarely visited, was built by King João I to commemorate his victory at Aljubarrota. Feel the weight of history in this dimly lit space.
Join a guided tour with a historical twist: Opt for a tour led by a historian or archaeologist. They can unveil stories beyond the usual visitor narrative, bringing the monastery's past to life with intriguing anecdotes and insights.
Explore the Founder's Tomb by night: Join a special evening tour that illuminates the Founder's Tomb from within. Witness the stunning stone carvings and intricate details bathed in an otherworldly glow, creating a truly unique experience.
Frequently asked questions about Batalha Monastery
The amount of time you spend at Batalha Monastery depends on your interests and pace. A quick visit can be done in 1-2 hours, while a more thorough exploration with guided tours and deeper dives into the details could take 3-4 hours. Consider your personal preferences and allocate time accordingly.
Absolutely! Batalha Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Gothic and Manueline architecture. It's rich in history, art, and cultural significance.
There are 3 ticket options for Alcobaca Monastery: an entry ticket for €10 and a combo ticket for €5.60. The other two are an optional lunch tour and day tour.
The Alcobaca monastery is open from 09.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., from Sunday to Sunday. The last entry is at 5:30 pm.
Batalha is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. If driving, take the A17 highway and follow signs to Batalha. Buses run regularly from Lisbon and Porto. The nearest train station is in Leiria, and taxis are available to connect you to the monastery.
Most areas of the monastery are wheelchair accessible, including the church, cloisters, and Founder's Chapel. However, some parts, like the unfinished chapels, may have limited accessibility.
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants within walking distance of the monastery, offering Portuguese cuisine and snacks. You can also find a picnic area in the monastery gardens.
In addition to visiting the Batalha Monastery, there are a number of other things to do in the town of Alcobaça, including: Visit the Museu da Comunidade das Lezírias, Explore the José Malhoa Museum, ake a walk through the Batalha Park.
In addition to visiting the Batalha Monastery, there are a number of other places to visit in the area around Alcobaça, including: Alcobaça Monastery, The Nazaré Beach, Fátima Sanctuary, The Tomar Monastery
Tip: Plan at least 2 hours to tour all sections of the Batalha monastic complex.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Lisbon Card
Tip: With the card, enjoy complimentary access to over 39 museums, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with unrestricted travel on public transport.
Please click here for the list of attractions and public transport available to you with this ticket.
You can visit each attraction only once.
Once redeemed, it is valid for 24-hr, 48-hr, or 72-hr depending on the ticket option chosen.
Fast-track entry is not possible at all attractions.
All cards must be exchanged at the same redemption point.
Inclusions
#
Entry to Batalha Monastery
Lisbon Card:
24/48/72-hour card
Free color handy guide and app
Interactive map
Click here for the list of attractions and public transport
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
These tickets are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Discover the history and message ofOur Lady of Fátima on a private tour from Lisbon.
Everything you get: A private tour to Fátima with an expert Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French-speaking guide, round-trip transportation with hotel transfers, and a longer stop at the sanctuary for mass.
Why choose this: Experience the spiritual significance of Fátima with a personalized tour that allows for deeper exploration and reflection.
Inclusions
#
Full-day tour of Batalha, Fátima, Nazaré, Óbidos
AC transfers from Lisbon
Entry to Batalha Monastery
Expert Portuguese, English, Italian, and Spanish-speaking guide
Lunch (as per option selected)
Exclusions
#
Food & drinks
Tips
What to bring
Wear comfortable shoes as this tour involves a fair amount of walking.
Carry a valid ID with a name matching that on your booking
What's not allowed
Strict dress code: No shorts or sleeveless clothing is allowed inside the monastery or at the shrine.
Additional information
Please mention any specific dietary requirements if choosing to add lunch to your day trip.
The itinerary is subject to change due to unpredictable rain or other events.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Meet your expert guide and set off on a journey to see the laidback towns of Fátima, Óbidos, Batalha and Nazaré.
Begin your journey driving past Ribatejo fields, towards Fátima.
The Sanctuary of Fátima is known for its apparitions of Virgin Mary to three little shepherds in 1917.
Your next stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Batalha Monastery.
Listen to your expert guide as they regale you with stories about the military victory that led to its construction.
Enjoy the sun, sand and gorgeous Atlantic coastline at Nazaré.
Pop by a local restaurant and try a traditional Portuguese meal at your own expense.
Explore Óbidos’ local castle and admire its centuries-old Gothic structures.
Drive past the lovely countryside on your way back to Lisbon.
Inclusions
#
Expert guide (English, French, German, Spanish, Italian or Portuguese)
Transportation in an air-conditioned bus
Exclusions
#
Hotel transfers
Additional gratuities
Food and drinks
This tour has the following options you can choose from:
English Guided Tour
Spanish Guided Tour
Italian Guided Tour
Portuguese Guided Tour
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tickets
Tickets to Batalha Monastery
Batalha Monastery
Tip: Plan at least 2 hours to tour all sections of the Batalha monastic complex.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Lisbon Card
Tip: With the card, enjoy complimentary access to over 39 museums, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with unrestricted travel on public transport.
Please click here for the list of attractions and public transport available to you with this ticket.
You can visit each attraction only once.
Once redeemed, it is valid for 24-hr, 48-hr, or 72-hr depending on the ticket option chosen.
Fast-track entry is not possible at all attractions.
All cards must be exchanged at the same redemption point.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Extended validity
Flexible duration
Guided tour
Day Trips
From Lisbon: Fatima, Óbidos, Nazaré & Batalha Day Trip with Optional Lunch
Discover the history and message ofOur Lady of Fátima on a private tour from Lisbon.
Everything you get: A private tour to Fátima with an expert Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French-speaking guide, round-trip transportation with hotel transfers, and a longer stop at the sanctuary for mass.
Why choose this: Experience the spiritual significance of Fátima with a personalized tour that allows for deeper exploration and reflection.
