Estrela Basilica, Catholic basilica in Estrela district, Lisbon, Portugal.
Estrela Basilica is a Baroque church featuring two prominent bell towers and a large central dome with geometric patterns made from grey, pink, and pale yellow marble. The interior is spacious with high vaults, decorated walls, and several chapels that provide room for prayer and religious gatherings.
The church was commissioned in 1779 by Queen Maria I in fulfillment of a vow made after the birth of her son José, who died before the building was completed. The work continued for many decades and eventually housed her own tomb when it was finished.
The interior holds a large nativity display made of handcrafted figures representing religious scenes and daily life. This artistic collection reflects the devotion and craftsmanship that have been central to the building's purpose over the centuries.
You can explore the building and its interior spaces on foot, walking through the main nave and chapels at a relaxed pace to observe the details and artworks. It helps to wear comfortable shoes and visit earlier in the day when fewer visitors are inside.
This was the first church worldwide dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, redefining religious architecture of the late 1700s. This distinctive feature made the building a turning point in Christian sacred architecture around the world.
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