Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Belém > Restelo
The monument to Our Lady of Africa is located in Restelo, an elevated area of Belém, in the city of Lisbon. This predominantly residential area offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the capital's busiest spots. Its position in Restelo allows for a calmer visiting experience, integrated into an environment with its own identity, yet still close to Belém's historical and monumental context.
This notable monument is a creation of the renowned Portuguese sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida (1898-1980), a highly significant figure in 20th-century Portuguese sculpture. The work dedicated to Our Lady of Africa stands out for its expressiveness and the mastery with which the artist captured form and feeling. The statue invites contemplation, revealing the signature of a sculptor whose pieces are found in various public spaces, contributing to the national artistic heritage.
The presence of this monument carries a relevant historical and symbolic background. Originally, the statue was installed in the courtyard of the Ministry of National Defense building, also in Restelo, which underlines its connection to the military sphere and the memory of the Portuguese Armed Forces. The designation of Our Lady of Africa, in turn, evokes a more comprehensive symbolic dimension, referring to Portugal's historical and cultural relationship with the African continent, a theme of profound resonance in the country's history.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.7050399,-9.2071789
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'18.1"N 09°12'25.8"W