Category: Religious Architecture > Convent
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Ajuda
This remarkable architectural complex stands in the parish of Ajuda, in Lisbon, specifically located in Largo da Boa-Hora. Set in a neighborhood with a rich history and a unique atmosphere, the site stands out for its imposing presence in the urban landscape of this area of the Portuguese capital.
The construction of the Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Boa Hora dates back to the 18th century, having been built after the devastating earthquake of 1755. This complex was erected from scratch to house the Order of the Discalced Augustinians, serving as an important center of religious life. However, with the extinction of religious orders in Portugal in 1834, the convent was vacated, marking the end of a chapter in its history. Later, in 1892, the former convent was repurposed, becoming home to the Belém Military Hospital. The church, in turn, underwent significant renovations during the 1870s.
The Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Boa Hora are an expressive example of the Pombaline religious style, an architectural movement that defined the reconstruction of Lisbon after the earthquake. Its main façade is harmonious and has a considerable visual impact, reflecting the grandeur of the era. The convent complex is developed on a square floor plan, with three rectangular wings organized around a central cloister. The church, in particular, has a single nave, flanked by side chapels and topped by a chancel. The main façade is structured on two levels, divided by plain pilasters, and is crowned by a bell tower and accessed by a monumental staircase.
The interior of the church reveals a decorative richness that complements its external grandeur. The nave is enhanced with painted ceilings, which capture the visitor's attention with their artistic elaboration. Also noteworthy are the azulejo panels that cover part of the walls, depicting scenes from the life of Saint Augustine, a central figure for the order that resided there, and the four Evangelists. The space is also embellished with several canvases of a religious theme, which contribute to the site's atmosphere of devotion. In the chancel, the eye is drawn to the richly gilded and painted wooden altarpiece, which frames a venerated image of Our Lady of Ajuda.
Recognizing its historical and architectural importance, both the church and its former convent have been classified as a Monument of Public Interest, a status that underscores their value in Portuguese cultural heritage. It should be noted that this site is known by different names over time, being also commonly referred to as the Church of Boa-Hora, the Church of Our Lady of Ajuda, or the Parish Church of Ajuda.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convento_da_Boa_Hora
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.7038848036769,-9.194432226846773
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'14.0"N 09°11'40.0"W
Weather Lisboa
On-duty Pharmacy Lisboa
