Church of Our Lady of Grace

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The church was originally located outside the city walls before the 14th-century Cerca Fernandina expansion incorporated the site.

2. 2

   The interior holds an image of the Lord of the Steps, which is a central figure during the annual Procession of the Lord of the Steps through the city.

3. 3

   The building suffered extensive damage in the 1755 earthquake, requiring a total reconstruction of the nave and sanctuary.

4. 4

   The monastery cloisters feature a series of blue-and-white tile panels that were salvaged and restored to reflect 18th-century religious iconography.

5. 5

   It is a site of religious pilgrimage during the feast days dedicated to the patron saint of the order.

Overview

The Church of Our Lady of Grace, or Igreja da Graça, sits atop one of Lisbon's highest hills, originally founded in 1271 by the Order of Saint Augustine. The current structure is a reconstruction following the massive 1755 Lisbon earthquake, which destroyed the original medieval convent. The interior features significant 18th-century tile panels (azulejos) depicting the life of Saint Augustine. The church serves as a burial site for several notable figures, including the explorer D. Pedro de Meneses. Attached to the church is a former monastery that houses a cloister with distinct architectural elements from the post-earthquake rebuilding effort. The site remains an active place of worship while functioning as a historical monument for visitors. It is architecturally recognized for its transition between late Baroque and Neoclassical styles.

Insider tips

• Access the attached 'Miradouro da Graça' viewpoint immediately adjacent to the church for a panoramic view of the Castelo de São Jorge.

• Walk through the monastery cloister to appreciate the quiet contrast to the busy surrounding Alfama district.

• Visit the small interior museum section if open, which contains ecclesiastical vestments and liturgical artifacts.