Igreja de Santo Estêvão

Igreja de Santo Estêvão Lisbon

The Igreja de Santo Estêvão (Church of Saint Stephen) lies in a pretty square in the Alfama district of Lisbon.

The church is a distinctive feature of the skyline of this part of the capital city.

History

The church dates back originally to the 12th century but was reconstructed by architect Manuel da Costa Negreiros in Baroque style in 1733.

Damaged in the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake losing one of its towers, it was again restored and reopened for worship in 1773.

Interior Art

The interior is distinctively Baroque and more subdued than other Lisbon churches. The altar is done in stone with many fine sculptures in gilded wood by sculptor José de Almeida. Also of note is the beautiful 18th-century azulejos tile work.

The Miradouro de Santo Estêvão at the south side of the church is a classic Lisbon viewpoint and pleasant terrace with fine views over the Tagus and Alfama.

Access & Hours

Largo de Santo Estêvão 13
1100-435 Lisboa, Portugal

Only open twice on Sunday morning and Tuesday morning for mass, though these openings may change without notice.

Lisbon buses #206, #210, #728, #735, #759 and #794 stop a short walk uphill to the church on Av. Infante Dom Henrique near the River Tagus. Tram 28 is also convenient for Alfama and the Portas do Sol viewpoint. Bus #737 goes to Lisbon Castle - the last stop - from Plaça da Figueira via the Sé (Cathedral) and Miradouro Santa Luzia.

Igreja de São Miguel, Portugal. — The incredibly decorative interior of the Igreja de São Miguel with lavish gilded woodwork and paintings

Nearby

The Museu do Fado is close by as well as another historic church, the Igreja de São Miguel.

Santa Apolonia Station and Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) are also within easy walking distance as is the interesting Fundação Ricardo do Espírito Santo Silva dedicated to Portuguese decorative arts.

There are several hotels nearby including the Palacete Chafariz Del Rei, housed in a 19th century aristocratic family home and the four-star Memmo Alfama, also located in a 19th century building with outdoor pool with views of the River Tagus.