Portugal: Manueline Art Route, tailor-made by car

History and art are two parameters to measure the grandeur of a country. And Portugal simply oozes history and art wherever you go. That's why we've hand-picked for you the best places that showcase Manueline art. This style, so typical of the Portuguese 16th century, has elevated dozens of buildings across the country to the category of 'treasures'. In Lisbon and its surroundings you'll find a great representation of all this. Two well-known examples are the Torre de Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery, although there are many more. Another must-see on the tour is Óbidos, a magnificent walled city. Inside the walls is the Paço dos Alcaldes palace, with two quintessentially Manueline windows and a fantastic door. After a seaside sojourn in Nazaré and a visit to spiritual Fátima, you can then head to Coimbra, a privileged Portuguese city that boasts an extensive repertoire of Manueline art. The New Cathedral, the Monastery of Santa Cruz and the Casa de Sub-Ripas are just some of the treasures that await you. Portuguese art also filters into its cuisine and its music, which will constantly accompany you on this cultural tour dotted with unique sights such as the Templar Castle and the Convent of Christ, both in the town of Tomar. It's truly spectacular and, of course, also hosts several samples of Manueline art. A must-visit! As are Santarem and Évora, delectable places for strolling around and admiring Portugal's late Gothic art. And the final destinations are Sesimbra and Setúbal, where blue azulejo tiles will mark the path of Manueline art. If you don't know much about the origin and characteristics of this ever-so-special style, take note: Manueline art is typical of sixteenth-century Portugal, when Late Gothic mutated into an architectural style of its own. Buildings started to sport previously unimaginable features, the majority related to marine life or mythical creatures, which soon gained prestige for their refined elegance.