Church of Our Lady of Sorrows

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Belém > São Francisco Xavier

Location

The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows is located in the São Francisco Xavier area, in Belém, Lisbon, an area of remarkable historical and cultural value. This temple is situated on Rua do Embaixador, in a slightly elevated position, preceded by a walled and fenced churchyard that gives its main facade a distinct presence in the urban landscape. The church is also integrated into the special protection zone surrounding the National Palace of Belém, underscoring its importance in the parish's heritage context.

Origins and Social Legacy

The history of the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows dates back to the late 18th century, with its foundation in 1787. The construction of this temple and the adjacent building was due to the initiative of the Brotherhood and Charity of Our Lady of Sorrows. This brotherhood had a remarkable mission of social support, dedicating itself to protecting the most destitute patients and accompanying the faithful in their final hours and burial. An inscription carved on the bell tower perpetuates the memory of this philanthropic origin, stating that the expenses were covered through diligent alms collection.

Style and Interior Ambiance

This religious building features an architectural style characteristic of the Pombaline period, with lines that reflect the sobriety and organization of the era. Its structure consists of a single longitudinal nave and a rectangular chancel, both covered by vaults that lend them spaciousness. Inside, the nave's side walls are enriched with polychrome stonework, punctuated by altars dedicated to various invocations, including Saint Joseph, Saint Anthony, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus, as well as pulpits. The choir loft, with its wooden balustrade, offers an elevated perspective over the space. In the chancel, preceded by an imposing triumphal arch in stonework, the main altarpiece stands out, featuring gilded and marbled carving, which houses the figure of Our Lady of Sorrows, while low-relief stuccoes adorn the ceilings, lending the ensemble an atmosphere of beauty and contemplation.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt