Explore Batalha Monastery, The final resting place of Prince Henry the Navigator

Standing in old, exquisite monasteries, with the sun's bright rays bleeding through the cracks and intricacies of the age-old walls, and a sage-like smell so serene, it feels like the warm embrace of peace and calm, even in the midst of a crowd. This indescribable feeling is something that you’ll only experience once you step inside the beautiful monastery of Batalha.

Built in the late 14th century, The monastery of Batalha was King John I's grand offering, a thank you carved in stone to the Virgin Mary for his unlikely victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota. Within the hallowed halls of the monastery, lies his son, the prince of Portugal who spurred a new era of maritime exploration and shaped the course of its history- Prince Henry the Navigator.

Navigating your way through the Batalha Monastery

• Start with the Founder's Chapel (Capela do Fundador). This is the most impressive part of the monastery and where you'll find the tombs of King João I of Portugal, his wife Philippa of Lancaster, and their children, including Prince Henry the Navigator. The chapel is known for its intricate stonework, stained glass windows, and octagonal ceiling. The architectural style is a unique blend of Flamboyant Gothic and the English Perpendicular style, influenced by Queen Philippa who brought English architects along with her. The central octagon chamber is a truly splendid space,  capped with a complex star-shaped vaulted ceiling.
  
• Allocate: 30-45 minutes
  
• Next, explore the Church of Santa Maria da Vitória (Church of Saint Mary of Victory). This church was built to commemorate the Portuguese victory over the Castilians at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. It's a beautiful space with high ceilings, stained glass windows, and a mix of Gothic and Manueline architectural styles. 
  
• Allocate: 20-30 minutes
  
• See the Royal Cloisters (Claustro Real). This is a peaceful courtyard surrounded by arcades. This peaceful courtyard was a place for monks to relax and meditate. Look for the central fountain that adds to the lull of the portrait-like panorama.
  
• Allocate: 15-20 minutes
  
• Don't forget to see the Unfinished Chapels (Capelas Imperfeitas). These chapels were never completed, but they still offer a glimpse of the monastery's original plans. These were originally intended to be the tombs of King Duarte I and his wife, Queen Eleanor.
  
• Allocate: 10-15 minutes
  
• Finally, head to the Chapterhouse (Sala do Capítulo). This room was used by the monks for meetings and discussions. Today, it houses a small museum with exhibits on the history of the monastery and the religious orders that inhabited it. You'll find artefacts, paintings, and religious sculptures.
  
• Allocate: 10-15 minutes