Alcobaça
Alcobaça is located in the valleys of the Alcoa and Baça rivers, which, according to some writers, gave the town its name. Other interpretations suggest that the name of this locality, of Arabic origin, was divided to baptize the two rivers.
UNESCO World Heritage
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989, the imposing monastery is one of the most impressive and beautiful examples of Cistercian architecture in all of Europe. Despite its nearly 900 years, the medieval monastic complex remains intact, and its church is the largest in the primitive Gothic style built in Portugal during the Middle Ages.
The monastery is contemporaneous with the founding of Portugal and represents a significant part of its history. It was established by the first King of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, as a result of his donation of the lands of Alcobaça to the Cistercian Order after his victory over the Moors in the conquest of Santarém.
In 1178, construction of the monastery began, following the model of the Abbey of Clairvaux, the mother house of the Cistercian Order in France. The white-robed monks created a unique work of civilization in the region, reflected in the public school that began in 1269. The royal donations received throughout various reigns formed the Coutos of Alcobaça, vast territorial domains that the monks populated, developed, and where they established a school of agriculture.
The only original element of the façade is the Gothic portal. On each side, the lightness of the statues of St. Benedict and St. Bernard contrasts with the Baroque weight of the frontispiece and the bell towers added in the 18th century.
Upon entering, the grand central nave, devoid of any adornment, creates a sense of elevation and spirituality. At the center of each arm of the transept, you can see two masterpieces of medieval statuary, the tombs of King D. Pedro I (1357-67) and Queen D. Inês, placed facing each other so they can reunite once again on the Day of Resurrection.
Be sure to visit the impressive set of medieval monastic rooms, including the Refectory, Dormitory, and Chapter House, as well as the Cloister of D. Dinis, the surprising Kitchen, and the Hall of Kings.
The Monastery of Alcobaça can be reached in about 90 minutes by car from Quinta da Palmeira – Country House Retreat & Spa.