Capela do Paço da Bemposta, Royal chapel in Pena, Portugal
The Capela do Paço da Bemposta is a royal chapel in Lisbon with a rectangular layout and a prominent facade, featuring marble statues of Saint Elizabeth and Saint John the Baptist flanking the entrance vestibule. The interior showcases ceiling paintings and a central altar area enriched with artistic details throughout its worship space.
Construction of the chapel began in the early 18th century under Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess who later became queen of England. Its creation marked an important moment in royal architecture and reflected the ambitions of that era.
The chapel takes its name from the former royal palace that once stood nearby, reflecting its historical connection to court life. Visitors can still sense this link through the refined artistic choices and formal layout that define the interior.
The chapel is located within the Military Academy grounds in the Arroios district and can be visited during specific opening hours. It is advisable to check access conditions in advance, as the building remains in active use and visiting may be restricted.
The floor features an intricate polychromatic mosaic pattern that adorns the interior with geometric and colored designs. This decorative element makes the chapel an overlooked example of Portuguese craftmanship from that period.
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