Portugal (Lisbon)

The Royal Shield and Guardant Angels: Detailed Relief of the South Portal Tympanum at Jerónimos Monastery (1516–1518)

2571

16th century Built between 1516 and 1518 by João de Castilho and his workshop following a design by Diogo de Boitaca.

Architectural Purpose: Serves as the visual centerpiece and symbolic anchor of the 32-meter-high, shrine-like South Portal—the grand ceremonial side entrance facing the Tagus River. Votive and Imperial Purpose: Visually proclaims the divine right of the Portuguese monarchy, uniting state sovereignty with religious devotion at the threshold of the church.