
A bell tower in the Convent of Christ. Although Manueline architecture was short-lived and confined to Portugal, there are many striking examples of it in Portuguese architecture of the period. In the Convent of Christ, it is incorporated into extensions built in later ages as the building underwent constant renovation and expansion. The most spectacular expression of this architecture is the Chapter House window, a large window gasp-worthy for its unprecedented boldness in design and execution, with a stunning degree of detail. Henry the Navigator remained grand master of the Miliatry Order of Christ until he died. He was buried in Batalha Monastery in Portugal’s central region. Other European powers, notably Spain, also launched their own voyages of discovery, but Portuguese sailors were the first to reach many hitherto unknown parts of the world. Their journey began in a quiet port on the Algarve coast, fuelled by the vision of their patron, and the power and wealth that supported him.