So, starting to narrow sites down. I certainly don't want to or need to see evey monastery, abbey, convent etc. so want to pick the best. It seems like thus far I have had recommendations for Balem's Jeronimus, El Escorial in Madrid and fewer recommendations for Montserral outside of Barcelona. A couple of others have come up in my reading and I'd appreciate any thoughts on them. Tomar - Convent of Christ, Batalha- Santa Maria da Vitoria, Alcobaca- Mosteriro de Alcobaca or Convento dos Capuchos-8 miles SE of Sintra. Again I will not do all I only want to get feedback on the best to visit; then I am able to make an educated decision. Thank you,

Montserrat would surely be on my list to see!

Here's a link to sacred destinations by country.

http://www.sacred-destinations.com/

How much time are you planning on spending on this adventure?

Portuguese Monasteries ranking:

1. Belem
2. Batalha
3. Tomar

I didn't go to Alcobaca as 3 monasteries were enough.

Tomar would be at the top of my list.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mksfca/...7623788386374/

and if you are driving and happen to be near Jaca, I would go see San Juan de la Peña.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mksfca/...7623190654780/

Thus far, only one has recomm. the monasteries in Spain, i.e. Montserral or El Escorial. Is that because were not able to see them or the others are your first choice. Thank you,

Been to El Escorial and Montserrat and would place Monasterio de Pedralbes in Barcelona right next to those.

Haven't been to the others listed, but will very enthusiastically second the Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial. First-rate artwork and splendid basilica, library, and burial crypt. A must-see as far as I'm concerned.