  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.
|
The
Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória was built by order of King John
I, in gratitude for his glorious victory over the Castilian army in the
Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, which brought Portugal its independence
from Spain. The construction would last for almost two centuries (1388-1533)
and resulted in one of the most beautiful Gothic monuments we ever have
seen.
UNESCO
World Heritage Sites in Portugal