Convento de Nossa Senhora da Esperança

Convent of Our Lady of Hope (outside decorated with anchors) was built in the 16th century, and underwent many changes in the succeeding four hundred years, including the addition of the quadrangular tower with different levels of windows.

Inside are the azulejo tile panel scenes dated at various times in the 1600s and the gilded woodwork that covers the baroque-style main altar inside. Christ’s image is encompassed by a grand collection of jewels, which have been accumulating since the 18th century. The repertoire includes a crown of thorns encrusted with ruby and diamond, sheaf of corn, cane, and a scepter. Intricate silver lamps hang from the ceiling.

The altarpiece of the main altar Our Lady of Hope with a child in the lap, from where the church gets its name.

With this last church, we decided we'd had enough looking around for the day. Our lunch at Lan's (very good pizza €21) had held us well. We returned to Casa de Graca for a rest and for dinner headed to Tasca (highly recommended, too busy when we got there) but sat down at a nice spot nearby called O Churrasco (€32) featuring grilling over hardwood (Nancy really enjoyed her "fork-beard" fish served with potatoes, vegetables and rice). Then home, Penguins entry, hot shower (have to wait a long time for things to warm up in an 18th century building!) and to bed as we had booked a tour bright and early for Day 2.Read more