We’ll tell you right now that it’s definitely worth it! Most of the churches in Lisbon are really beautiful, and they all have a story to tell. Here are the 5 we like best:
1 – Church of the Child of God, Calçada do Menino de Deus (Santa Maria Maior)
Huge, beautiful and grandiose, this church was built in 1711 (it withstood the great earthquake!), and has beautiful wall and ceiling paintings to delight us.
Located very close to São Jorge Castle, it is often overshadowed by the latter, but it’s not worth a visit.
2 – Church of Santa Catarina, Calçada do Combro (Santa Catarina)
The church of Santa Catarina has suffered greatly from fires and natural disasters. It is a parish church with Baroque architecture.
Many of its details are gilded and it has a beautiful rococo ceiling. Its organ was recently restored (in 2018), and we hope to be able to hear it soon! If you happen to be in Chiado, be sure to take a look!
3 – Church of Santa Engrácia, Campo de Santa Clara (Alfama)
Better known as the National Pantheon, this is a must-see in Lisbon, and it’s on the route of the viewpoints because it has an incredible view.
Its construction began in 1682 and was only completed in 1966. It serves the noble (and somewhat morbid) purpose of being the tomb of great Portuguese personalities.
4 – Church and Convent of Madre de Deus, Rua Madre de Deus (Xabregas)
It has existed since 1509 and belonged to the Order of Santa Clara. Nowadays, it houses the National Tile Museum (another reason to go).
A curious fact is that the Portuguese band Madredeus stole its name from this church.
5 – São Domingos Church, Largo de São Domingos (Rossio)
This is perhaps the most different church from the others. There we won’t see the gold carving, but the remains of the fire that took place there in 1959.
Instead of being completely rebuilt, the church was cleaned, the altar and ceiling restored and painted pink. It is its different and impressive beauty that makes it a special place on our list.