Estrela Basílica is one of the most important 18th century buildings in Lisboa. Also known as Basílica do Sagrado Coração de Jesus (Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus), it was built by order of Queen Mary I of Portugal, as a fulfilled promise that if she would give birth to a son (José, known as Prince of Brazil), she would order the construction of a convent for the Carmelite religious order.
The Basílica started to be built in 1779 and was finished in 1790, after the death of José, caused by smallpox, in 1788.
The Baroque style predominates throughout the building, although the central part of the façade is Neo-classical in inspiration. The most important features are the Baroque statues and the harmonious interior, where marble is used extensively.
The interior also features a notable 18th century Nativity scene, carved in cork and terracotta by Machado de Castro.
The Basílica is also the own pantheon of the Queen Mary I of Portugal, the only queen of the of Bragança Dynasty that is not buried in the São Vicente de Fora Monastery.