The Archival Sources of the Batalha Monastery (Portugal): Unique Collections for the Study of the Monument’s Restoration Work in the 19th Century

The Monastery of Batalha is one the most important Gothic monuments in Portugal. In 19th century, between 1840 and 1900, it underwent extensive restoration work which significantly altered its features, as well memories past monastic experiences. Despite magnitude intervention, that transformed former Dominican monastery into a historical monument Nation, was, however, subject to an exemplary, scrupulous detailed management methodology. This was reflected production unprecedented documentary collection (textual, iconographic, object-based), mainly archived within itself, thus allowing for highly accurate reconstruction conducted understanding criteria followed. By means integrated perspective, this study seeks highlight these sources, with particular emphasis on: their unique character context archives Portuguese monuments; role on history Portugal general; potential interdisciplinary research can be derived thereof, involving latest technological trends.