Portugal (Lisbon)

Jerónimos Monastery (Lisbon): South Portal Central Niche, Madonna and Child, and Statuary Program

2560

Built between 1516 and 1518 by master architect João de Castilho and his workshop, following initial design concepts by Diogo de Boitaca, during the height of the Manueline (Portuguese Late Gothic / Renaissance Transitional) period.

Architecturally, this monumental assembly creates an elaborate sculptural altarpiece on the exterior wall. Symbolically, it establishes a celestial hierarchy centered on the Virgin Mary as Queen of Heaven and protector of Portuguese navigators, surrounded by the communion of saints.