Mausoleum of the Benefactors of Mercy of Lisbon

Category: Civil Architecture > Memorial

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > São João

Location

The Mausoleum of the Benefactors of the Misericórdia de Lisboa is located in the eastern part of the city, in the São João neighborhood, integrated into the historic Alto de São João Cemetery. Upon entering this cemetery, you will observe the mausoleum prominently positioned to the left of the central axis leading to the main chapel. Its presence is notable and marks the entrance, flanked by the tomb of the Viscount of Valmor. In front, on the ground, a "Portuguese pavement" displays the inscriptions "Misericórdia de Lisboa" and "Jazigo dos Benfeitores" (Tomb of the Benefactors), inviting an approach to this singular construction.

Memory and Legacy

This imposing mausoleum was erected by the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa between 1906 and 1909, with a profound purpose: to honor and house the mortal remains of its benefactors, figures whose donations and generosity were fundamental to the institution's social mission throughout history. The project was entrusted to architect Adães Bermudes, who left his mark on several Misericórdia works at the time. The construction of this tomb is a testament to the enduring gratitude and recognition of the Santa Casa towards those who, selflessly, contributed to its good causes.

Architectural Details

The Mausoleum of the Benefactors is a notable example of the Neo-Manueline revivalist style, which manifests itself in its rich ornamentation and forms. Its plan is a Greek cross, with a pentagonal apse that confers a distinctive touch. The facades are crafted in ashlar masonry, featuring well-articulated and profusely decorated volumes. A profusion of decorative motifs can be observed, such as vegetal elements (flowers, artichokes, and foliage), armillary spheres, ropes, and various crosses, all crowned by pinnacles and a faceted spire. Zoomorphic gargoyles and effigies complete the exterior aesthetic, while the main portal, in a perfect arch, displays a beautiful relief of Our Lady of Mercy.

Inside, the mausoleum is divided into two levels: a chapel at ground level and an underground crypt, connected by a spiral ashlar staircase. The upper chapel, also in ashlar masonry, features ribbed and groined vaults, and a marble floor combining pink and black tones in geometric patterns, with a central cross. The side windows are adorned with geometric stained-glass panels, softly filtering the light. The crypt, although simpler in its decoration, maintains the same Greek cross plan, with light-toned walls and arches supported by pillars with decorated capitals. The entire work reveals remarkable craftsmanship, with ashlar masonry work carried out by talented stonemasons from Coimbra, and iron elements and stained-glass panels executed by renowned artists of the time.

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