A new interpretation centre on a 14th Century battle that changed the course of history has opened to universal acclaim in Alentejo, a region known as ‘The heart of Portugal’. The centre stands next to a fine monastery, recently rehabilitated, which was built after the battle to commemorate Portugal’s famous victory over Castile.
- 17 January 2010
This high-quality cultural project has a major impact on the economy of a region that has long been affected by low investment from central government. It also provides job opportunities for young professional staff, preferably locally recruited, with high university qualifications.
Located 120 km north of Lisbon, the Aljubarrota interpretation centre and monastery form an integrated tour for visitors. They are expected to attract over 100 000 visitors annually by 2010, boosting tourism and the local economy.
New interpretation centre
Alentejo is one of Portugal’s least well-known regions and often struggles to attract visitors. Yet it is surrounded by World Heritage sites and has plans for a tourist trail taking in the renowned religious site of Fatima.
East of Fatima stands the Aljubarrota battle interpretation centre (CIBA). It was opened in 2008 after work to adapt the military museum that had stood there for over two decades, with EU co-funding for half of the total project cost. The Aljubarrota Battle Foundation invested €10 million in the project, with support from the government and patrons.
The centre’s focus is the 14 August 1385 battle, when a small Portuguese force defeated a larger Castilian army, with help from English archers. The victory resulted in Portugal’s independence as a nation and cemented the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance – still the world’s oldest.
Aspects of the battle are explored in modern multimedia, including a dramatic 30-minute film that sets the event in the context of the period. The centre also features an exhibits area on the battle, highlighting related archaeological features and artefacts. Among the other rooms are a temporary exhibit area, shop and restaurant.
A few kilometres south lies the Batalha Monastery, erected in the gothic style three years after the battle to celebrate the Portuguese victory. It was the Portuguese monarchy’s main building project for the next two centuries, though it no longer functions as a religious centre.
Education is key
Since opening in October 2008, CIBA has welcomed over 40 000 visitors. One third of these are local students, taking advantage of educational programmes and services, to which 1 500 m2 are devoted.
A second interpretation centre that is linked to the same battle is now being planned.