Front view on the Basilica da Estrela from the streets of Lisbon timelapse hyperlapse, Portugal. Traffic on the street and blue sky
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clube de futebol estrela da amadora

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Basílica da Estrela

Top choice in Príncipe Real, Santos & Estrela


The curvaceous, sugar-white dome and twin belfries of Basílica da Estrela are visible from afar. The echoing interior is awash with pink-and-black marble, which creates a kaleidoscopic effect when you gaze up into the cupola. The neoclassical beauty was completed in 1790 by order of Dona Maria I (whose tomb is here) in gratitude for a male heir.

Don't miss the presépio, home to the incredibly elaborate 500-piece Nativity Scene made of cork and terracotta by celebrated 18th-century sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro; it's in a room just beyond the tomb. Climb the 112 steps of the dome for far-reaching views over Lisbon.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Príncipe Real, Santos & Estrela attractions

1. Jardim da Estrela

0.12 MILES

Seeking green respite? Opposite the Basílica da Estrela, this 1852 green space is perfect for a stroll, with paths weaving past pine, monkey-puzzle and…

2. Cemitério dos Ingleses

0.19 MILES

Overgrown with cypress trees, the Cemitério dos Ingleses was founded in 1717. Expats at rest here include Henry Fielding (author of Tom Jones), who died…

3. Casa Fernando Pessoa

0.26 MILES

Immerse yourself in the life and work of Portuguese modernist founder and author Fernando Pessoa as you wander through his old apartment, browse through…

4. Casa Museu de Amália Rodrigues

0.36 MILES

A pilgrimage site for fado fans, this is where the Rainha do Fado (Queen of Fado) Amália Rodrigues (1920-99) lived; note the calçada portuguesa …

5. Palácio da Assembleia da República

0.36 MILES

The columned, temple-like Palácio da Assembleia da República (Palácio de São Bento) is where Portugal’s parliament, the Assembleia da República, makes its…

6. Lavadouro das Francesinhas

0.4 MILES

Most folks walk right past one of Lisbon's only surviving public laundromats – there's no sign other than 'CML' inscripted across the doorframe – and this…

7. Museu da Marioneta

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Discover your inner child at the surprisingly enchanting Museu da Marioneta, a veritable Geppetto’s workshop housed in the 17th-century Convento das…

8. Cemitério dos Prazeres

0.48 MILES

Most visitors come to this cemetery, the largest in Lisbon, for the view of the Rio Tejo right next to the artists' plot. But the elaborate baroque family…