 Not
only shape and size of this magnificent building, but in particular
also
the splendid decoration of its facades with most elaborate stonemason
works
in Manueline decoration style are amazing and very impressive. The main
entrance is the magnificent portal at the West side, with numerous
elaborate
sculptures, like those of the twelve apostles. A special attraction is
the Founder's Chapel with the mediaeval tomb of King John I and his
wife,
Queen Philippa of Lancaster. The majestic interior of the church is of
great grandeur and beauty, reminding a cathedral.
Behind
the transept at the back of the church, one reaches the Royal
Cloisters,
built in the reign of John I. The arches overlooking the garden were
built
later. Here the Manueline open stone and sculpting are magnificent. A
marvellous
example of Gothic architecture is the Chapter's House that rises to an
enormous single vault that has no other support than the walls.
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