Church of Lapa, Braga
The Church of Lapa is a beautiful neoclassical church, built in the mid-18th century, that forms an integral part of the Arkad buildings on Republic Square.
One of the most notable features of the Church of Lapa is its fa莽ade, adorned with intricately carved vases. This decorative fa莽ade stands out from the more compact Arkad buildings, making the church easily distinguishable. The fa莽ade's neoclassical design reflects the artistic sensibilities of the period.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a stunning interior adorned with 19th-century azulejos tiles. The high-profile choir features a wooden balustrade, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time. An organ also graces the interior, further enhancing the musical and spiritual ambiance of the church.
An additional significant feature of the church is its recessed bell tower, which was erected in 1771. This bell tower stands atop one of the turrets that once belonged to the city's old castle, adding historical depth to the church's architecture.
The history of the Church of Lapa is intertwined with the devotion to Our Lady of Lapa. In 1757, Father 脗ngelo de Sequeira, a canon of the Cathedral of S茫o Paulo in Brazil, arrived in Braga to preach. He chose the location of the Arkad, which was traditionally used for the sale of foodstuffs in the city, to place an image of Our Lady of Lapa.
In response to the growing devotion, Archbishop D. Gaspar de Bragan莽a of Braga authorized the construction of a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Lapa. Work on the chapel commenced on September 9, 1761, with the project attributed to the renowned architect Andr茅 Soares. The temple was consecrated on September 7, 1767, marking the official establishment of the Church of Lapa.
One of the most notable features of the Church of Lapa is its fa莽ade, adorned with intricately carved vases. This decorative fa莽ade stands out from the more compact Arkad buildings, making the church easily distinguishable. The fa莽ade's neoclassical design reflects the artistic sensibilities of the period.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a stunning interior adorned with 19th-century azulejos tiles. The high-profile choir features a wooden balustrade, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time. An organ also graces the interior, further enhancing the musical and spiritual ambiance of the church.
An additional significant feature of the church is its recessed bell tower, which was erected in 1771. This bell tower stands atop one of the turrets that once belonged to the city's old castle, adding historical depth to the church's architecture.
The history of the Church of Lapa is intertwined with the devotion to Our Lady of Lapa. In 1757, Father 脗ngelo de Sequeira, a canon of the Cathedral of S茫o Paulo in Brazil, arrived in Braga to preach. He chose the location of the Arkad, which was traditionally used for the sale of foodstuffs in the city, to place an image of Our Lady of Lapa.
In response to the growing devotion, Archbishop D. Gaspar de Bragan莽a of Braga authorized the construction of a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Lapa. Work on the chapel commenced on September 9, 1761, with the project attributed to the renowned architect Andr茅 Soares. The temple was consecrated on September 7, 1767, marking the official establishment of the Church of Lapa.
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Church of Lapa on Map
Sight Name: Church of Lapa
Sight Location: Braga, Portugal (See walking tours in Braga)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Braga, Portugal (See walking tours in Braga)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Braga, Portugal
Create Your Own Walk in Braga
Creating your own self-guided walk in Braga is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Braga Introduction Walking Tour
The history of Braga, Portugal's religious capital, spans millennia. Located in the northern Minho region, this city is also one of the country's oldest, reportedly founded by Bracari Celts.
Braga's origin is closely associated with the Roman conquest in 136 BC, culminating in the establishment of Bracara Augusta in 16 BC, a pivotal location within the newly-formed Gallaecia... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Braga's origin is closely associated with the Roman conquest in 136 BC, culminating in the establishment of Bracara Augusta in 16 BC, a pivotal location within the newly-formed Gallaecia... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Historical Religious Sites Walking Tour
Braga is a prominent destination in Portugal's Religious Tourism segment, primarily due to its vibrant Holy Week celebrations and rich ecclesiastical architecture. Indeed, being one of the world's oldest Christian cities, Braga boasts an extensive religious legacy. Much like Rome, it seamlessly interweaves art and spirituality throughout its historic center.
Here, you will find a... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Here, you will find a... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles