Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte

Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte, Lisbon

The Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte (Ermida da Senhora do Monte) in Lisbon dates back to the 12th century. It has one of the best viewpoints or miradouro in the capital from the small square in front of the church.

From the surrounding square of Largo do Monte there are great views looking over to Barrio Alto, Chiado, Baixa and the River Tagus.

History

The first chapel was constructed on the site as far back as 1147 after the reconquest of Lisbon from the Moors, the Muslim inhabitants in Spain and Portugal at that time.

The church was dedicated to the legendary São Gens de Lisboa who was a bishop of the city during Roman times and who was supposedly martyred on this very spot. Whether São Gens actually existed or not is open to some historical doubt.

The chapel was administered by the Order of the Augustinians. In 1291 they moved to the nearby Convento da Graça, but were later to return.

The friars placed a stone chair that had supposedly belonged to the saint within the building. A legend arose that pregnant women who sat in the chair had safe child birth.

Maria Ana of Austria, the wife of King João V (1689-1750) sat here when she was pregnant with the heir to the throne.

The 1755 Lisbon earthquake virtually destroyed the existing building. The current chapel was built in 1796 in the Baroque style, a little higher than the original site and is the work of architect Honorato José Teixeira.

The church has a single nave and two altars. Outside is a small shrine with an image of Our Lady of the Mount (see image above), which gives the church its name.

The square outside the church has spectacular views of Lisbon Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) and the surrounding area. One of the highest points in Lisbon, an azulejos tile panel points out the things that can be seen from the viewpoint. Come at sunset for great views over the city.

Access

Largo do Monte
Rua da Senhora do Monte, 74
Lisbon 1170-107
Tel: 21 099 3976

The Lisbon tram number #28 as well as Lisbon bus #734 both stop within reasonable walking distance of the church. Intendente is the nearest Lisbon metro station.