Estrela Basilica

The Estrela Basilica, or Basílica da Estrela, is one of Lisbon's most magnificent and architecturally significant churches. Commissioned by Queen Maria I in fulfillment of a vow, its construction began in 1779 and was completed in 1790, making it Portugal's first church to be built entirely in the Neoclassical style, albeit with strong Baroque influences. The basilicas most striking features include its immense dome, flanked by two elegant bell towers, and its intricately carved façade. Inside, the lavish interior is adorned with marble inlays, frescoes, and a renowned Nativity Scene, sculpted by Joaquim Machado de Castro, featuring over 500 figures. A climb to the dome offers panoramic views over the city, the Tagus River, and the adjacent Estrela Garden. The basilica also houses the tomb of Queen Maria I. Its grand scale and artistic richness make Estrela Basilica a captivating example of 18th-century Portuguese religious architecture.