When you first see the Igreja de São Roque or the Church of Saint Roch from the outside, you might think “oh just another boring church”, but go inside and you’ll be blown away! Why? Because it’s said to be the world’s most expensive church!
17th Century Masterpiece
Said to be the home of some of the most expensive and prized Catholic architecture and art of Europe, the Igreja de São Roque at first used as a shrine for the beloved Saint Roche during the 1500’s. When the Jesuits came to Lisbon during the16th century, King John III gave them permission to build a church where the shrine was. The construction was completed in the 1600s, but the most significant renovations took place in the 1800’s.
Within Easy Distance
The church is located in downtown Lisbon in an area known as Largo Trindade Coelho. Therefore, it’s just a short walk away from many Lisbon, Portugal hotels such as the AVANI Avenida Liberdade Lisbon Hotel. Also its right next to the Museu de São Roque. The metro station that’s nearest to the church is the Baixa-Chiado. However, this will involve a bit of a walk up a steep hill.
The Most Prized Element of the Church
Each chapel of the Igreja de São Roque are simply stunning with their intricate elements and masterpieces of sculpture, mosaic, and painting; it’s the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist or the Capela de São João Baptista that’s really the icing on the cake. Its considered to be the most prized element of the church.
Important Information
There’s no entrance fee required at the Igreja de São Roque. But you should know that it still works as a functional church so if you want to explore the church at ease best to avoid the mass, unless you want to take part in it of course. Igreja de São Roque is open every day except on Mondays from 9:30 to 5:00. The museum that’s located next to the church is open from 10:00 to 6:00 and charges a fee of €2.50 for entrance.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+
