Igreja da Lapa — Attraction in Porto

This impressive church holds the Heart of King Pedro IV, an amazing massive Pipe Organ, and a Historic Graveyard. A highly recommended visit, not on the usual tourist "must see" list. Admission was free and only a hand full of others visiting while we were there in the early afternoon

Since 1835 the church is the resting place of the heart of King Pedro IV, who asked that his heart be given to the City of Oporto upon his death in order to thank its citizens for their sacrifices and courage showed to him during the civil war against his brother D. Miguel.

Inside to the rear of the church stands another one of the church's great assets, the massive pipe organ surrounded by impressive stained glass windows. If you have a chance to experience a concert with the Organ we highly recommend doing so.

Just behind the church is the Graveyard of Our Lady of Lapa, opened in 1833 it houses some fantastic gothic crypts housing the remains of famous writers, architects, artists, and businessmen such as Arnaldo Gama, Camilo Castelo Branco, Soares de Passos; Marques da Silva, Marques de Oliveira; D. Manuel de Santa Inês, and José...

Once upon a time, in a land where the river sings and the grapes grow like treasures on emerald hills, we set off on a journey to the enchanted Douro Valley. But before the vineyards and the golden light, we wandered somewhere quiet. Somewhere forgotten by most, yet filled with stories. We found ourselves at the cemetery of Igreja da Lapa in Porto.

It was morning. The city still whispered in shadows, and the gates of the cemetery stood open like the pages of an old book. Inside, it felt like time had curled up for a nap. The tombs were worn but elegant, carved with names and memories in fading stone. We walked slowly, half expecting to meet ghosts with kind eyes or hear the echo of ancient prayers. And maybe we did. There was something gentle about that place. Peaceful. Like the city was saying goodbye...

This church is a bit out of the way if you're staying at Baixa, but if your interested in history you definitely should pay a visit to "Igreja da Lapa" as this is the place where lies the heart of Pedro IV, King of Portugal and first Emperor of Brazil.

If you want to watch one of the few occasions when the heart was taken out of its place, search "Coração D. Pedro retirado Lapa" on YouTube.

If you want to get the historical context, try "Portugal: A Companion History" by José...