Estrela Basilica

Estrela Basilica (Basílica da Estrela) is a Carmelite basilica and convent in Lisbon, officially the Royal Basilica and Convent of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Its white dome and twin bell towers are visible from far away and make up one of the recognisable features of the city skyline.

Why was the Estrela Basilica built?

Queen Maria I commissioned the church as a vow of thanks for the birth of a son. According to tradition she swore to build a magnificent church in Lisbon if she gave the kingdom a male heir. Her son José, Prince of Brazil, was born in 1761. Construction began in 1779 and finished in 1790. In 1788, before the work was complete, José died of smallpox at the age of 27. The basilica is the most important architectural undertaking of Maria I's reign, and it is regarded as the first church in the world dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

What does it look like?

The design was modelled on the basilica at Mafra. The building blends Baroque and neoclassical elements. The interior is finished in pink and black marble, and the colours are especially striking when you look up toward the dome.

What can you see inside?

• The tomb of Queen Maria I, the founder of the church, lies inside the basilica.
• A Baroque nativity scene made of more than 500 terracotta and cork figures.
• The dome, with a viewing terrace reached by 112 steps. A small fee applies, and the terrace offers wide views over Lisbon.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Estrela Basilica? In Lisbon, Portugal, in the neighbourhood of the same name, at about 38.713 N, 9.161 W.

Who founded it? Queen Maria I, in gratitude for the birth of her son.

When was it built? Between 1779 and 1790.

Can you climb the dome? Yes. The climb is 112 steps and costs a small fee. At the top is a terrace with views across the city.

Is the queen buried here? Yes, the tomb of Maria I is in the basilica.

Is the nativity scene worth seeing? If you enjoy sacred art, yes. The Baroque scene with over 500 terracotta and cork figures is one of the distinctive features of the interior.

In short

The Estrela Basilica combines royal history, architecture and views. For many visitors it is one of the most interesting churches in Lisbon, with a dome visible from afar, a marble interior, the founder's tomb and an unusual nativity scene. Climbing to the dome terrace lets you look down on the city and get a better sense of how it is laid out.