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Alcobaça Monastery
Alcobaça
Nestled in the charming town of Alcobaça in Portugal's Leiria district, the Alcobaça Monastery stands as a testament to medieval architectural grandeur and historical significance. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its stunning Gothic façade and serene cloisters, offers a glimpse into the monastic life of the Cistercian order. Visitors are drawn to its majestic nave, the largest in Portugal, and the poignant tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro, whose tragic love story echoes through the ages. A visit to this monastery is a journey through time, offering both spiritual reflection and architectural awe.
Top 5 Facts
- The Alcobaça Monastery, founded in 1153, is one of the first Gothic buildings in Portugal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989.
- The monastery was established by the first Portuguese King, Afonso I, as a gift to Bernard of Clairvaux and the Cistercian Order for their support in the Reconquista.
- The church of the Alcobaça Monastery is the largest in Portugal, measuring 106 meters in length and 22 meters in height, showcasing the grandeur of Gothic architecture.
- The monastery is the final resting place of King Pedro I and his beloved Inês de Castro, whose tragic love story is one of Portugal's most famous historical tales.
- The Alcobaça Monastery played a significant role in the agricultural development of the region, with the monks introducing advanced farming techniques and managing vast estates.
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