Igreja da Memória
(Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Livramento e de São José)
HistoryIn 1758 King Jose I escaped an assassination attempt and two years later this church was constructed near the site of the incident as a thanksgiving for his survival.
The principal architect was the Italian Giovanni Carlo Galli da Bibbiena (1717-1760) but after his death Mateus Vicente de Oliveira oversaw the completion of the building making changes to the plans for the upper parts of the building and dome. Significant events of the 20th century included the transfer of the remains of the Marques de Pombal to the church in 1928, temporary use as a grain warehouse and significant damage by lightning in 1985 and its subsequent restoration. The church is now the headquarters of the armed forces diocese. |
DescriptionThis church is sometimes compared to the near contemporary Basilica of Estrela because of similarities in design, principally their domes and interior decoration.
However there is a huge difference in scale, the Igreja da Memória being considerably smaller. This is to its advantage and the result is an intimate and graceful interior. Though we more often associate late 18th century baroque with more grand buildings - Mafra and Estrela are prime examples, it perhaps works better in miniature, as it does so well here in Ajuda. The result is a building of remarkable charm. Of particular interest is the use of the church as the mausoleum of the Marques de Pombal. That his remains are discretely located here instead of Jerónimos Monastery clearly shows the somewhat ambivalent attitude of the state towards one of its historically most significant citizens. It is also curious that he now lies in the spot where the attempt was made on the life of his former master, Jose I. The Marques de Pombal's cynical use of this incident to vanquish his enemies (with astonishing cruelty) and consolidate his own power was undoubtedly one of the most controversial episodes of his life and is probably the main reason why he is not now in Jerónimos. In short, this church is well worth a visit and is only a short walk from the tourist high spots of Ajuda Palace and Belém. You may think the concept of a military church an oxymoron but this relatively new use for the building does mean that is well maintained and frequently open. There is also a helpful leaflet available in English. |
AccessAddress:
Calçada do Galvão, Ajuda, Lisboa1400-170 Transport: The church is directly on the 727 bus route. Alternatively take public transport to either Ajuda Palace or Belém and walk. The church is approximately midway between the two. Open: Monday to Saturday: 14:00 to 19:00 Sunday: 08:00 to 12:00 Masses: Monday to Saturday: 18:00 Sunday: 10:00 |