Make a wish

This little fountain, almost hidden on one side of the main corridors, was a pleasant surprise while visiting the Alcobaça Monastery.
It was not visible until I reached the entrance of it. Someone decided to make a gap in a wall and place this lovely fountain in a round room with plenty of windows for the light to get in.

You have to pass the arched entrance and you are in.

Within the cloister is the octagonal lavabo, although, quite simple on the outside, within is an elegant Renaissance water fountain, where monks would have washed their hands.
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One would think that monks should have a simple life, eh? The place is far from simple.

It was a pity it was not on, and I am not sure if it is working normally, but at least there were some nice reflections in the completely still water (and in the shiny coins people leave behind). With all the light shining though, you can see the white walls of the monastery and the beautiful sky.





All the sides of the fountain are heavily decorated with carvings. Each side is different.

And when you are done admiring all the details, it's time to look outside to the garden, other parts of the monastery, and the two towers of the church (which is stunning and deserve a separate post.. coming sometime soon).

It was almost a shame to leave it, but there is so much more to see. It is like a welcoming gift and a spoiler for what's to come.