LISBON’S
CHURCHES
Lisbon is an architectural confection, a characteristic
most evident in the vast assortment and differing
styles of its churches.
Although largely rebuilt after the cataclysmic earthquake
of 1755, many of the original buildings still exist,
including the 14th century Igreja do Carmo, whose
roof fell in on its All Saints Day congregation.
Other churches of note include the imposing Jerónimos
Monastery in Belém, built to commemorate
Vasco da Gama’s epic pioneering sea voyage
to India in 1498, and the Baroque church of Santa
Engrácia, also the national pantheon.
Built in the 12th century and overlooking Lisbon’s
downtown district, the Romanesque Sé cathedral
is one of the city’s greatest landmarks.
