Rio Maior

In the middle of the Serras D'Aire and Candeeiros Natural Park, about 80kms North from Lisbon, you can get to know several special spots in Portugal, like Fatima Sanctuary, Mosteiro da Batalha and Alcobaça, and the well knowned Obidos village. Fabulous beaches are about 20kms away.

Near Alcobaça, that is known for its principal attraction, the Abbey of Santa Maria. Founded in 1153 to commemorate a victory against the Moors, it was finally completed in 1223. It is now Portugal's largest church, and one of its outstanding architectural monuments.

It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and its excellent state of preservation makes it the finest example of Cistercian architecture in Europe (it is also the continent's largest building of the Cistercian order).

Basically Gothic in structure, it contains five cloisters, seven dormitories, a library, and a huge kitchen.

Besides this outstanding building, the town of Alcobaça has little else that stands out besides being a center of a porcelain and pottery industry. There are many shops around the central square, and some factories welcome visitors.

Leave a comment

You can only leave a comment if you have been staying at this particular House.