Church of São Domingos

Discover one of Lisbon’s most emblematic churches which combines both beauty and a sinister past. Between Rossio and Praça da Figueira, you’ll find the church of São Domingos, one of the prettiest churches in the city. Built in the 13th century by King Sancho II, successive building work, refurbishments, earthquakes and fires have altered its original medieval structure completely. At this church where all national and royal ceremonies were held, from funerals, baptisms and weddings, history also shows its dark side. This is where those condemned for heresy at the neighbouring Palace of Inquisition would be brought out for public execution in Rossio. The architectural and decorative style of the church of São Domingos is very diverse, mainly due to the restoration required after the earthquake in 1755 and the great fire of 1959. But you’ll still find the high chapel designed by the architect Ludovice and the visible effects of the heat in the cracked stone slabs. An amazing and haunted port of call right in downtown Lisbon.