Sacred Heart of Jesus Basilica

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Póvoa de Varzim > Póvoa de Varzim > Nova Sintra

Location

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus stands in the Nova Sintra area, in the city of Póvoa de Varzim. It is located in the northern part of the urban area, with direct access via Rua Gomes de Amorim, one of the main thoroughfares crossing the city. Its location allows it to be a visible landmark for those moving through this area.

A Building with History

The history of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is marked by a long construction period, which spanned decades, from 1890 until its completion in 1948. The idea for its construction arose from the growing devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the region, driven by the return and influence of the Jesuits in the 19th century. The temple was conceived to be a large-scale construction that could rival notable works in the Portuguese religious landscape.

Its construction suffered significant interruptions, notably in 1910, with the establishment of the Republic and the subsequent expulsion of the Jesuits, which led to the building remaining in ruins for several years. Construction resumed in 1927 and was deemed complete in 1948, reflecting the community's resilience and dedication throughout different historical periods.

Architecture and Symbolism

With its imposing presence, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus features a neoclassical architectural style. One of the most notable elements is its magnificent dome, which stands out in the overall structure and is topped by the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus itself, a sculpture that embodies the central devotion of the site. The base of the dome is adorned with twelve arched windows, which not only allow abundant natural light to enter, illuminating the interior, but also create a visual effect of lightness and suggest a celestial aura surrounding the main image.

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