Lisbon Views

Meet the story of an ancient church that is now a home for tourists

Church of Santo André has a story that goes back to the beginning of the 13th century (1209 or 1229). After surviving different kingdoms, wars, and earthquakes – now it is a beautiful house for Lisbon visitors who wish to emerge into the deepest cultural e historical experience of Lisbon.

History

This church has known references to the Inquiries of the reign of King Dom Afonso III (1248 to 1274). The building was also donated by King Dom Diniz to the seat of Parish of Santo André in 1286.

In 1755, the great earthquake destroyed the city of Lisbon and this church collapsed almost completely. The beginning of the end of the Portuguese empire was a time of reconstruction for this church, with works that finished in 1779.

The period from 1828 to 1834 was marked by the wars between liberals and absolutists. With the extinction of religious orders, the church stuffing was sold and in 1843 the building was partially demolished for the construction of the square.

The building was again reconstructed in 1847, preserving two of the outer walls of the old church as well as several interior structures. These are some of the church’s original materials and artefacts that remain to this day, offering a deeply historic and special experience to the Historic House of Santo André guests.

Rehabilitation of the Church

The building was in a high state of degradation until 2015. This was the year of its last rehabilitation which was “managed” by the archaeology and anthropology services of the Lisbon City Hall.

During this rehabilitation, a precious tile panel was found. You can visit the tile panel nowadays in the National Tile Museum. The house also preserves 2 of the arches of the inner chapels as well as part of the original walls of the reconstruction of 1779.

The high-quality reconstruction of this building transformed it into a world-class house for living. This is a magical place where you can live in an environment filled with history from the past, with the best house conditions of the present.

The Historic Centre of Alfama

You will find the Historic Hose of Santo André in Lisbon’s old town, between the districts of Castelo, Alfama, Mouraria, and Graça. This is the most popular neighborhood to stay in among tourists because you take one foot out the door and you’re at the historical city center.

The narrow streets, colorful buildings and community feeling of Alfama enchants even the stiffest visitors. If you stay at Historic House of Santo André, you’ll be a few minutes up to the castle and a few minutes down into the labyrinth that is the old Alfama and Mouraria, filled with life, smells, and music.

Some other popular points of interest near Historic House of Santo André include Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Rossio and Dona Maria II National Theatre.

The 3-storey building can accommodate up to 10 guests in 5 suites, all with private bathrooms. It’s perfect for families or groups that travel together and wish to experience the local community while in the most popular neighborhood to visit. You can read more about and book this accommodation here