Basilica da Estrela Lisbon

Portugal's Attractions: Basilica da Estrela

Basilica da Estrela

The Basilica da Estrela, in the Estrela district of western Lisbon, 2 km from Bairro Alto, is a fine late 18th century church.

A vast monument to Neoclassicism, the church is known for its huge dome and fine multi-colored marble interior in hues of pink, yellow and gray.

The building has some resemblance to the Mafra Palace built by Dona Maria's father (see below). The central dome is flanked by two bell towers. Statues of saints adorn both the exterior and interior.

Basilica da Estrela, Lisbon, Portugal. — Basilica da Estrela, Lisbon

History

The church contains the tomb of Dona Maria I, who commissioned the church in thanks for the safe delivery of a male heir - José, Prince of Brazil (1761-1788), who was unfortunately to die of smallpox, aged 27, before the completion of the grand basilica constructed in his honor.

Construction of the church began in 1779 and was completed in the 1780's.

The Estrela Basilica was the first church in the world dedicated to the Catholic devotion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in which the heart of Jesus is viewed as a symbol of God's love for mankind.

There are fantastic views of the surrounding area from the top of the dome. The church is opposite the Jardim da Estrela, through which can be reached the English Cemetery (Cemiterio dos Ingleses), with the grave of English novelist, Henry Fielding and the St George Anglican Church.

A nativity scene by sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro, with numerous figures rendered in cork and terra cotta can be visited for a small fee.

The church's dome has some resemblance to that of the Igreja da Memória as the architect who drew up the initial plans for the church, Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, was also responsible for the dome at the Igreja da Memória in Ajuda.

Access

Basilica da Estrela
Lisbon 1200-667
Tel: 21 3960 915

Tram: The #25 tram shuttles between Plaça Figueira and Lisbon's largest cemetery at Campo Ourique (Prazeres) stopping at Estrela on the way. Lisbon Tram 28 also stops just outside the church.

Lisbon buses that run through the Estrela area include the #709, #713, #720, #738, #773 and #774.