Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Estrela
The Estrela Basilica, officially the Royal Basilica and Convent of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a minor basilica and former Carmelite convent located in Lisbon, Portugal. It was commissioned by Queen Maria I as a fulfillment of a vow and stands as the first church globally dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, representing a significant architectural undertaking of her reign.
Key Facts
- ›Built as a fulfillment of a vow made by Queen Maria I to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
- ›It was the first church in the world dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
- ›Construction began in 1779 under the direction of architect Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, and was concluded by Reinaldo Manuel dos Santos.
- ›The basilica features a prominent dome and twin bell towers, displaying a style reminiscent of late Baroque and Neoclassical influences.
- ›Notable interior features include extensive use of grey, pink, and yellow marble in geometric patterns and a famous nativity scene with over 500 figures.
- ›The tomb of Queen Maria I is located within the basilica.
Late Baroque, Neoclassical
Carmelite
Mateus Vicente De Oliveira, Reinaldo Manuel Dos Santos
About Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Estrela
Estrela Basilica
The Estrela Basilica, officially known as the Royal Basilica and Convent of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a significant minor basilica and former Carmelite convent located in Lisbon, Portugal. Its construction was ordered by Queen Maria I as a fulfillment of a vow and it holds the distinction of being the first church in the world dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica represents the most important architectural endeavor of Queen Maria I's reign.
History and Commission
Queen Maria I, then Princess of Brazil, made a vow in 1760 to build a church and convent under the Rule of Saint Theresa if she was granted children to ensure the succession of the House of Braganza. After acceding to the throne, she was able to fulfill this promise. Construction commenced in 1779 with a groundbreaking ceremony where her husband, Peter III, laid the first cornerstone. The initial architectural direction was by Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, who oversaw the construction of the conventual areas and the beginning of the basilica. Following Oliveira's death in 1785, Reinaldo Manuel dos Santos took over, completing the works and making substantial alterations to the exterior design, including the dome and bell towers.
Architecture and Features
The Estrela Basilica is a large church dominated by a giant dome and is situated on a hill, making it visible from a considerable distance. Its architectural style is characterized by late Baroque and Neoclassical elements, drawing comparisons to the Mafra National Palace. The front of the basilica features twin bell towers adorned with statues of saints and allegorical figures. The interior is renowned for its extensive use of grey, pink, and yellow marble, arranged in intricate geometric patterns that are considered among the most beautiful in European churches. The basilica also contains several paintings by Pompeo Batoni. A major attraction for visitors is a famous nativity scene, crafted by sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro, which comprises over 500 figures made of cork and terra cotta. The tomb of Queen Maria I is situated in the right transept of the church.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official name of the Estrela Basilica?
The official name is the Royal Basilica and Convent of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is commonly known as the Estrela Basilica.
Why was the Estrela Basilica built?
Queen Maria I of Portugal vowed to build the church and convent if she was granted children who would ensure the succession of the House of Braganza. She commissioned it as a fulfillment of this vow and due to her fervent devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
When was the Estrela Basilica constructed?
Construction began in 1779 and was completed by Reinaldo Manuel dos Santos after the initial architect, Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, passed away. The conventual areas were built between 1778 and 1781.
What architectural styles are present in the Estrela Basilica?
The basilica's style is described as late Baroque and Neoclassical, with a large dome and twin bell towers. The interior showcases intricate geometric patterns created with various colored marbles.
What are some notable features inside the Estrela Basilica?
The basilica is adorned with a large quantity of grey, pink, and yellow marble in geometric patterns. It also houses the tomb of Queen Maria I and a famous nativity scene sculpted by Joaquim Machado de Castro, comprising over 500 figures.
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