‏‏‎ Main Gate

While it is smaller and less detailed than the South Portal, from the architectural and theological viewpoints this is the Monastery's main entrance.

Symbolically facing East, in line with Christian tradition, this is the door facing the High Altar. It was designed by Diogo de Boitaca and executed by Nicolau Chanterenne in 1517. Above the portal are three niches with groups of statues representing scenes from the birth of Christ (Annunciation, Nativity and Adoration of the Magi).

On each side of the portal are statues of the Monastery's founding monarchs in prayer, with their respective insignia and patron saints: on the left Manuel I and behind him, standing, St. Jerome; on the right, Queen Maria, Manuel's second wife and St. John the Baptist.