The last monastery we visited was Alcobaça Monastery, founded in 1153 by Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. He established it as a gift to Bernard of Clairvaux, commemorating the Christian reconquest of Santarém from the Moors.

The facade was impressive, clearly revealing multiple architectural phases within its overall Gothic design. Originally built in the Gothic style with strong Cistercian influence, it was later enriched with Manueline, Mannerist, and Baroque elements as construction continued over time.

We marveled at the soaring ribbed vaults and the austere stonework as we listened to the story of King Pedro I and his lover, Inês de Castro—a tale that was both tragic and fascinating.

This was our last day in Portugal, a travel experience that was marked by revelation, fascination, and adventure. It might be superfluous to know, though we didn’t find any connection, that our family name originated in Portugal.

Photographs of our travels. Memories found and captured.

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