Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, Cascais

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is a historical and venerable religious edifice. This sacred place holds a significant historical presence, with records of its existence dating as far back as 1572, as evidenced by its mention in the engraving of Cascais found in the work "Civitates Orbis Terrarum."

In 1671, the church underwent extensive restoration and improvement works, during which the religious activities temporarily relocated to the Socorro chapel, a predecessor to the present-day Church of Navegantes. After the successful completion of these restoration efforts, the temple was once again opened to the public on December 21, 1681.

The devastating earthquake of 1755 inflicted substantial damage to the church, particularly affecting the facade and the high choir, rendering the church unusable. Consequently, religious ceremonies moved to the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré, situated in the former Casa dos Falcões. This period of disrepair and upheaval led to the fusion of the two pre-existing parishes, creating a single parish named the Parish of Nossa Senhora da Assunção and Ressurreição.

Over the centuries, restoration works on the church continued, with the most recent campaign occurring during the 2009-2010 biennium. To commemorate these efforts, a sculpture of Pope John Paul II, designed by Alves André, was unveiled on May 15, 2010, in Largo near the church.

Architecturally, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption follows a longitudinal plan with elegant and unassuming lines. The west-facing main facade comprises three distinct sections, separated by sturdy stone pilasters. Flanking the facade are two square bell towers, each capped with a pyramidal roof.

Upon entering the church, visitors are greeted by a spacious and luminous interior adorned with a rich array of decorative elements, harmoniously blending tile coverings, gilded woodwork, and intricate paintings.

The church's nave boasts a barrel-vaulted roof adorned with a central medallion painting depicting the Assumption of Our Lady, a masterpiece by José Malhoa from the early 20th century.