The monastery is one of the foremost examples of the Manueline style, a Portuguese variant of the late Gothic style. Named after king Manuel I, the Manueline style is characterized by its intricately carved stonework with motifs that were often inspired by nautical themes such as chains, ropes, spheres and anchors. One of the most impressive parts of the monastery is the south portal that leads to the church. The portal, created by João de Castilho, is elaborately decorated with ornaments and statues of the twelve apostles, prophets and angels. The central figure is that of the patroness of the church, St. Mary of Bethlehem.