The Brotherhood of Nossa Senhora da Lapa was established by Pope Benedict XIV in 1755 and church construction started the following year. Although the church was dedicated in 1779, the twin-towered façade was only completed in the period 1855-1863. The architectural style is a mixture of Rococo and neo-classical, influenced by the long construction period. The main altarpiece is a notable internal feature and dates from 1806; it was designed by the sculptor Simão de Brito and built by Manuel Moreira da Silva. The huge Adoration of the Shepherds painted panel by Joaquim Rafael (1783-1864) measures 12 by 5.7 metres.