Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Estrela
Located in the heart of the Estrela parish in Lisbon, this imposing building stands in an area of great historical and urban importance. Its striking presence in the Lisbon landscape reflects centuries of history and transformation, blending harmoniously into the urban fabric of the Portuguese capital.
The origin of this complex dates back to 1572, the year it was founded as a convent dedicated to Our Lady of the Star (Nossa Senhora da Estrela) by the Order of the Discalced Augustinians. The first mass on site was celebrated on December 24, 1573, marking the beginning of its religious life. Like many Lisbon buildings, it suffered significant damage in the 1755 earthquake but was promptly restored, bearing witness to the city's resilience.
Over the centuries, its purpose evolved drastically. With the turn of the 19th century, the former convent began to be adapted for military purposes, culminating in its designation as the Main Military Hospital in 1926. This institution provided a vital service, offering healthcare to military personnel and members of the security forces, until its closure on December 31, 2013, when its services were integrated into the Armed Forces Hospital. Today, the building retains its grandeur, although it no longer functions as an active hospital unit.
The architecture of the complex displays a fusion of Baroque and Rococo elements, revealing its construction and adaptations over time. The building has a rectangular plan, organized around two internal courtyards by four wings, and is spread over three floors, adorned with ashlar friezes that give the structure a remarkable solidity.
On the façade, the central section, corresponding to the former church, particularly stands out, imposing itself with an inviting staircase and ashlar pilasters. The church, in turn, has a longitudinal plan, divided into a vestibule, nave, and main chapel. The axial portal is enhanced by an elegant arch and a large window, complemented by side niches that contribute to its artistic expressiveness.
Inside, the monumentality continues to astound. An imposing staircase plays a crucial role in the distribution of the various spaces. The decoration reflects the artistic wealth of the era, with the presence of azulejo tiles covering the walls and, in the main chapel, a splendid gilded wood altarpiece, which captivates the eye with its complexity and brilliance. The main chapel also houses tombs, which are testaments to the site's memory and history.
Recognizing its historical and architectural relevance, the Church and former Convent of Nossa Senhora da Estrela are classified as a Monument of Public Interest. This classification underscores the building's importance within the landscape of Portuguese cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation and recognition as a significant landmark in Lisbon.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hospital_Militar_Principal
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.71376745785244,-9.158748374179822
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'49.6"N 09°09'31.5"W
Weather Lisboa
On-duty Pharmacy Lisboa
