Round Church of Convento de Cristo

It seems that I have arrived at an important location here in the Convento de Cristo. There is a round church which is probably the centerpiece of the entire monastery. I have never seen a “round” church before and it is as described. The main structure is octagonal in shape though it may not be that obvious from the outside. It is the inside which is most impressive. What was built is a magnificent Romanesque church which made my jaw hit the ground. There is a central pillar like structure whose arches reach out to the walls of the church. What results is a structure not that different from a tree arguably prettier.

The central structure is adorned with various gothic and Manueline designs which make it look incredibly beautiful. It is said to have been inspired by some places in Jerusalem such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Mosque of Omar. This area is cordoned off though, so it visitors have to stretch to see the pillar up close and still go away incredibly impressed. I think using a wide angle lens here would be perfect since this is such a small area and the shape of the church lends to its suitability for wide angle photography.

[xmlgm {http://www.worldwanderings.net/kml/ConventodeCristo.kmz} zoom=19]