Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate

Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate is a small 18th-century chapel in Lisbon's Jardim das Amoreiras, right beside the arches of the Águas Livres Aqueduct. It is easy to walk past, yet it is a quiet landmark tied to Lisbon's silk trade and to the French artisans who settled in this neighbourhood.

Where is the chapel?

The chapel stands in Jardim das Amoreiras in central Lisbon, near the fifth arch of the Águas Livres Aqueduct, at roughly 38.7218 N, 9.1565 W. The garden is among the older ones in the city and lies next to Amoreiras square and the Mãe d'Água reservoir, so the chapel fits neatly into a walk through this part of town.

How did it come about?

The building dates from 1768. Before that, worship took place in a wooden shack. The king granted land for a hermitage to replace it. The project was sponsored by the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Monserrate and by silk manufacturers linked to the factories of the Rato district. The chapel was built between the aqueduct's arches and dedicated to the patron saint of French artisans. The king later placed the hermitage under royal protection, so it was not subject to ordinary church authority.

What is inside?

The floor plan is octagonal. Panels of blue-and-white tiles line the walls, and a simple dome painted in tempera crowns the space. The altars are marbled woodcarving with Rococo influence. It is a modest but coherent interior, typical of Lisbon chapels of the period.

Background: the garden and silk

Jardim das Amoreiras was conceived by the Marquis of Pombal and inaugurated in 1759. 331 mulberry trees were planted here, on a site connected with a silk factory, to promote Portugal's silk industry. The Monserrate chapel is a reminder of the community of craftsmen who worked in that industry.

Frequently asked questions

Is the chapel inside a garden? Yes, in Jardim das Amoreiras, Lisbon.

When was it built? In the 18th century, in 1768.

Who is it dedicated to? Our Lady of Monserrate, patron saint of French artisans.

What does the interior look like? Octagonal plan, blue-and-white tiles, a simple dome and Rococo-influenced altars.

Why is it next to the aqueduct? It was built between the arches of the Águas Livres, funded by the brotherhood and silk manufacturers.

How long should I allow? The chapel is a short stop, but the garden and the nearby Mãe d'Água reservoir merit a longer stroll. Check opening hours before visiting, as they can change.