Provenance study of the limestone used in construction and restoration of the Batalha Monastery (Portugal)

A provenance study of the limestone used in the construction and restoration of the Batalha Monastery in Portugal reveals distinct sources for different architectural elements. Analysis using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (ED-XRF), powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) identified that the baluster likely originated from the Valinho do Rei or Reguengo do Fetal quarries, while other components such as part of the church railing, north-aisle eaves arch, and Royal Cloister came from the Pidiogo or Cabeço do Roxo quarries. These findings were supported by Ca-Sr binary diagrams and petrographic evidence, providing insights into the historical construction practices and material sourcing of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ding, Y., Mirao, J., Redol, P., Dias, L., Moita, P., Angelini, E., Grassini, S., & Schiavon, N. (2021). Provenance study of the limestone used in construction and restoration of the Batalha Monastery (Portugal). Acta Imeko, 10(1), 122. https://doi.org/10.21014/acta_imeko.v10i1.857