Batalha

The Monastery of Batalha, also known as Mosteiro de Santa Maria da Vitória, is located in the picturesque town of Batalha in central Portugal, about 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. It was commissioned by King João I in the 14th century to celebrate the victory in the Battle of Aljubarrota against Castile and to secure Portugal's independence.

This architectural masterpiece is particularly known for its Gothic and Manueline elements. The monastery is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the impressive unfinished chapels, a testament to Portuguese history and craftsmanship.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portuguese independence and mastery of Gothic architecture, the monastery attracts visitors with its ornate stonework and historical significance.

The monastery is open all year round and admission costs around 6 euros. There is ample parking and restaurants in the area that offer regional specialties.

> VIDEO

> ROUTE

The Capela do Fundador , also known as the Founders Chapel, is a notable part of the Mosteiro da Batalha in the town of Batalha, about 130 kilometres (81 mi) north of Lisbon. Built in the 15th century and commissioned by King João I to serve as a royal burial place, this chapel houses the tombs of the king and his wife, Philippa of Lancaster, as well as their children, including Henry the Navigator .

The chapel is particularly notable for its elaborate Gothic architecture and rich decoration. It marks an important historical reference point for the Avis dynasty and shows the connection between Portugal and England through the marriage of João I and Philippa.

The monastery, including the Capela do Fundador, is open all year round. Admission costs around 6 euros. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the site is large. There is parking nearby and numerous cafes serving local cuisine. Guided tours are also available to explain the historical significance and architectural details in more detail.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Capelas Imperfeitas, also known as the Unfinished Chapels, are located in the Mosteiro da Batalha in the historic town of Batalha, about 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. These chapels were started in the 15th century with the aim of creating a magnificent mausoleum for King Duarte I. However, construction was never completed, earning them their name "Unfinished Chapels."

These chapels are particularly known for their impressive Manueline architecture. The ornate decorations and detailed stonework make them a fascinating testament to Portuguese art and history. The open ceiling and unfinished walls offer a unique insight into the building techniques and changing architectural styles of the period.

Practical information: The Capelas Imperfeitas are part of the Mosteiro da Batalha and can be visited with a regular entrance ticket (approximately 6 euros). The monastery is open all year round. There is ample parking available and guided tours are also available to explain the historical and architectural features in more detail. There are several restaurants and cafes nearby offering regional specialties.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Igreja Matriz da Batalha, also known as Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Vitória, is located in the center of the city of Batalha, about 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. This beautiful church dates back to the 16th century and was built in the Manueline style, a typical Portuguese architectural style known for its ornate and detailed decorations.

The church is particularly notable for its elegant Manueline architecture and its importance to the local community. Its ornate doorway and carefully designed interiors offer a fascinating insight into the artistry and religious devotion of the period, and the church is an important place of worship for the town's residents.

Practical information: The Igreja Matriz da Batalha is open daily and admission is free. There is ample parking nearby and the city centre is within walking distance. Visitors should dress appropriately as it is an active place of worship. There are several cafes and restaurants in the immediate area offering Portuguese specialities. Guided tours of the church are available by appointment and offer a deeper insight into its history.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Ponte da Boutaca is a historic bridge near the town of Batalha, about 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. This impressive bridge was built in the 19th century during the reign of King João VI and is an outstanding example of engineering and architectural aesthetics of the period.

The bridge is characterized by its striking neo-Gothic arches and finely crafted stone structures that blend harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. It once served as an important transport link and is now an important monument of regional history and technology.

Practical information: The Ponte da Boutaca is freely accessible and can be visited all year round

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

This foundation preserves the historical legacy of the Battle of Aljubarrota, which took place in 1385 and is considered a decisive moment in securing Portuguese independence from Castile.

The visitor centre is located on the historic battlefield and features impressive exhibitions and interactive displays on the history of the battle and its protagonists. The foundation provides detailed information on the tactics, weapons and decisive moments that led to the Portuguese victory. The experience centre is also equipped with modern multimedia installations and a replica of the battlefield.

Practical information: The visitor centre of the Fundação Batalha de Aljubarrota is open all year round; admission costs around 6 euros for adults. Guided tours are available and offer in-depth insights into the historical events. .

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Museu Etnográfico da Alta Estremadura is located in the historic town of Batalha, about 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. This ethnographic museum is dedicated to preserving and displaying the cultural and historical traditions of the Alta Estremadura region.

The museum features an impressive collection of objects documenting the daily life, customs and crafts of the region over the centuries. Exhibits include traditional clothing, tools, household items and religious artefacts. These collections offer visitors an in-depth insight into local history and culture, and showcase the crafts and ways of life of rural communities.

Practical information: The Museu Etnográfico da Alta Estremadura is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday. Entrance costs around 3 euros for adults.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

Reguengos do Fetal offers excellent opportunities for climbing. The region around the village is known for its impressive limestone cliffs, which are ideal for climbing activities. A particularly popular rock face is the "Buracas do Casmilo", which offers numerous routes for both beginners and experienced climbers.

The limestone cliffs are naturally structured and offer good handholds and footholds, making them a popular destination for climbers. The surroundings are picturesque and the climbing routes offer stunning views of the rolling landscape of Extremadura.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Grutas da Moeda caves are fascinating stalactite caves located near Fátima, about 30 kilometers south of Batalha. These caves were discovered by chance by two hunters in 1971 and have been open to the public since then.

The caves extend over a length of about 350 meters and feature spectacular stalagmite and stalactite formations. Among the many interesting formations, the "Pão de Açúcar" (Sugar Loaf) and the "Fonte das Lágrimas" (Fountain of Tears) are particularly noteworthy. The passageways and chambers are well lit and allow visitors to admire the impressive limestone structures in all their glory.

Practical information: The Grutas da Moeda are open all year round and offer daily guided tours. Entry costs around 7 euros for adults. There is ample parking on site. The temperature in the caves remains constant at around 18 degrees Celsius all year round, so it is advisable to bring a light jacket. Comfortable shoes are advisable as the paths inside the caves can be damp and slippery.

Next to the caves there is a visitor center with a small museum that explains the geological history of the region and the caves.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

Pia do Urso is a charming village and ecological park located about 10 kilometers south of Batalha. Known for its natural beauty and well-maintained hiking trails, this picturesque spot in the Extremadura region is ideal for outdoor activities.

Pia do Urso is famous for its Bear Watering Hole ("Pia" means watering hole, and "Urso" means bear). The name comes from a natural water depression that was once used by wild animals, including bears. Today, the park is a popular tourist destination that preserves both the historical significance and natural beauty of the area.

The ecological park offers a variety of thematic trails that lead through the lush forest landscape and run along informative panels that tell about the local flora and fauna as well as the geological history. A highlight is the sensory trail, which is specially designed for the visually impaired and equipped with various tactile and acoustic stations.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

Fátima is an important pilgrimage site in Portugal, located approximately 40 kilometers south of Batalha and around 130 kilometers north of Lisbon. The city is known worldwide for the Marian apparitions attributed to three shepherd children in 1917, and is considered one of the most important places of the Catholic faith.

The Marian apparitions in Fátima, experienced by Lucia dos Santos and her two cousins ​​Jacinta and Francisco Marto, quickly attracted international attention. In 1930, the authenticity of the apparitions was recognized by the Catholic Church, and Fátima became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world.

The Sanctuary of Fátima is the main destination for pilgrims, consisting of several impressive buildings. These include the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, with the tombs of the little shepherds, the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity and the Chapel of the Apparitions, built on the site where the apparitions took place. A monumental square, larger than St. Peter's Square in Rome, also invites prayer and devotion.

Practical information: Fátima is open all year round, but the main pilgrimage periods are from May 13 to October 13, with the peak on May 13 and October 13. Entry to the religious sites is free.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

> REISEFUHRER FATIMA

Ourém is a charming historic town in central Portugal, about 15 kilometers northeast of Fátima. The town is known for its medieval castle, picturesque streets and strategic location with impressive views of the surrounding countryside.

Ourém played an important role in Portuguese history and developed around the 12th century castle built by D. Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal. The castle sits on a hill and offers 360-degree views of the Seiça River valley. In addition to its historical importance, the castle is also architecturally remarkable, with Romanesque and Gothic elements.

The old town of Ourém retains its medieval charm with narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses and old churches. A visit to the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the Palácio dos Condes de Ourém, a residence of the Counts of Ourém, is also worthwhile .

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Parque Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros is located in the Centro de Portugal region and covers an area of ​​around 38,900 hectares. The park is located about 20 kilometers north of Fátima and about 120 kilometers north of Lisbon. It includes the limestone mountains Serra de Aire and Serra dos Candeeiros, which are known for their karst landscape and high ecological diversity.

The natural park was established in 1979. The region is known for its impressive limestone formations, caves, sinkholes and underground waterways. Among the most notable caves are the Grutas de Mira de Aire, which offer a fascinating insight into the geological history of the region.

The park is also a paradise for geologists and botanists. There are rare plant species found nowhere else in Portugal, as well as a variety of bird species and other wildlife. One of the park's highlights is the Pegadas de Dinossáurios, a dinosaur footprint park that displays one of the largest concentrations of dinosaur tracks in the world. This is a must-see for families and anyone interested in paleontology and earth history.

The Parque Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros is accessible all year round and offers numerous hiking trails and paths that wind through the scenic landscape. Popular activities in the park include hiking, bird watching, climbing and mountain biking. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks as some of the hiking trails can be challenging.

There are several information centres in the park where visitors can obtain maps, guided tours and further information about the flora, fauna and geological features of the region. Parking is available at the various trail entry points. In the surrounding villages and towns, such as Alcanena and Porto de Mós, visitors can also find restaurants and accommodation from which to explore the park.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION

The Mosteiro de Alcobaça, also known as the Monastery of Alcobaça, is located in the town of Alcobaça, about 40 kilometers west of Batalha and about 100 kilometers north of Lisbon. This important Cistercian monastery is famous for its impressive Gothic architecture and historical significance and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989.

The monastery was founded in 1153 by King Afonso Henriques and placed under the control of the Cistercian Abbey of Clairvaux. It played a key role in the cultural and agricultural development of the region. The monumental building reflects the purity of the Cistercian style and is a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

The main attractions of the monastery are the Gothic church, one of the largest religious buildings in Portugal, and the impressive monastery complex with the chapter house, the refectory and the dormitories. Particularly noteworthy are the tombs of King Pedro I and his lover Inês de Castro, whose tragic love story is one of the most famous in Portugal's history.

Practical information: The Mosteiro de Alcobaça is open to visitors all year round. Entrance fees are around 6 euros for adults. Guided tours are available and offer a deeper insight into the history and architecture of the monastery.

> VIDEO

> NAVIGATION