Church of Santa Engrácia

The Church of Santa Engrácia is a white stone structure with an octagonal floor plan and a large dome that floods the interior with light. The building commands attention in the São Vicente skyline through its distinctive shape and scale.

Construction of the original church began in 1682 but was interrupted by numerous delays that stretched across centuries. In 1916 the building was transformed into a national resting place for important Portuguese figures.

The pantheon holds tombs of Portuguese figures whose names are engraved in stone throughout the interior. These names represent poets, explorers, and musicians who shaped Portuguese history and memory.

Access from the hill involves some stairs, but once inside the layout is straightforward to navigate. Clear signage and staff are available to direct you toward the main burial sites.

The building's prolonged construction inspired a Portuguese saying still used today to describe projects that drag on indefinitely. The phrase 'obras de Santa Engrácia' lives on in everyday conversation.

Location: São Vicente

Inception: 1682

Architects: João Antunes

Architectural style: baroque architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Address: Campo de Santa Clara

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00

Phone: +351218854820

Email: geral@panteao.dgpc.pt

Website: http://panteaonacional.gov.pt

GPS coordinates: 38.71500,-9.12500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:58