Combo (Save 10%): National Pantheon + São Jorge Castle Tickets

National Pantheon

The National Pantheon was first built in 1682 as the Church of Saint Engratia. The huge dome wasn't finished being built until 1966, making it Portugal's latest-completed monument. A lengthy endeavor is well described as "a job like St. Engratia." History states that it took so long to build because it was constructed on the site of a church that was broken into and burned down in 1630. It's the story of a Jewish man who was wrongfully arrested, condemned to death, and then exonerated. He stated that a new church would never be erected as an innocent man had been convicted.

Soon after its completion in 1681, the church collapsed, perhaps confirming his prophecy. As the country's first baroque building, it stands out for its absence of the style's signature golden ornamentation and blue-and-white tile panels. Instead, the inside is a multicolored marble masterpiece inspired by Rome's St. Peter's Basilica. With its octagonal plan based on a Greek cross, it is the last resting place of many notable Portuguese, including explorers, presidents, writers, and even Fado diva Amália Rodrigues.

São Jorge Castle

The original Moorish castle was severely damaged in an earthquake in 1755, and what you see now is a reconstruction. Before the monarch opted to construct a palace on the waterfront—also damaged in the earthquake—this building served as the official royal home. The castle now serves as the city's most recognizable landmark of its fortified walls and pine-shaded terraces.

There are 10 towers in all, all of which may be scaled. Explore the museum's modest collection of artifacts like Moorish coins, ceramics, and tiles that were uncovered during excavations. Try to spot a peacock or two that live in the planted areas around the tower.