While heading north (1:30hrs trip), prepare to be dazzled by a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art, the 12th-century Monastery of Alcobaça, founded by the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques. For its size, purity of architectural style, quality of materials, and the care with which it was built, it was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1989. You will then proceed to Batalha, a 14th-century monastery built as a fulfillment of a promise made by King John I in gratitude for the victory in a battle against Castille. This secured the throne and guaranteed the independence of Portugal. You will witness a national Gothic-style building influenced by Manueline art. Following that, you will have an hour free time for lunch at Batalha town. Finally, at the Convent of Christ at Tomar, you will discover the centuries-old link between the Knights Templar and the Kingdom of Portugal. With your guide, visit the original round church (Charola), built at the end of the 12th century by the first great Master of the Templars. At the conclusion of your experience, you will be returned back to your hotel.