Igreja de Santa Catarina, Baroque church in Misericórdia district, Lisbon, Portugal
Igreja de Santa Catarina is a Baroque church located in the Misericórdia neighborhood of Lisbon. The plain exterior contrasts with an interior lavishly decorated with gilded ornaments, intricate woodwork, and stucco ceilings.
The church was founded in 1647 and survives as one of the few buildings that endured the devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Its survival through this disaster makes it an important record of the city's past.
The interior displays paintings by Portuguese artists from the 18th century, arranged in gilded frames that line the walls. These works shape how the space feels and reflect the artistic tastes of that era.
Entry to the church itself is free, though a sacred art collection inside requires a small fee to view. Check opening times before visiting, as these can vary throughout the week.
A monumental organ framed by gilded carved wood sits prominently in the interior and commands attention. The Rococo stucco ceiling above is finely detailed and often goes unnoticed by visitors focused on the space below.
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