Romano-Gothic

However, the walls did start to become thinner by using some pointed arches and ribbed vaults to distribute weight more evenly.

[1] Combining ribbed vaults and the Romanesque tradition, the cathedrals of Angers (1149–1159) and Poitiers (1162) are examples of a transitional Gothic style, more austere and less well lit.

Especially in Germany and the Low Countries, the term is used of relatively late buildings in a cautious provincial version of Gothic.

The 93m high bell tower dates from the 12th century and is characterised by the 18 niches on each of its facade, as well as four roofed turrets at each corner.

Built in 1167, it is characterized by an octagonal plan, a reference to the cult of St. Ambrose of Milan, symbolizing the Eight Day of Resurrection and, thenceforth, the Baptism.

The edifice mixes Romanesque and Lombard-Gothic styles, the latter evident in the preference for bare brickwork walls.

Interior of the Alcobaça Monastery . The Alcobaça Monastery is one of the most important early Gothic monasteries in Portugal .