The Basilica was inaugurated in 1789 and is a true masterpiece of the Baroque style. The façade with the two bell towers, is adorned with monumental statues depicting personifications of Faith, Devotion, Gratitude and Liberality. Within the niches we can admire St. Theresa, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Elijah and St. John. Under the pediment, the Adoration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is depicted. The interior is equally, if not even more, impressive with an elaborate floor made out of pink, black and white limestone, an imposing Baroque organ in the High Choir, and a sumptuous nave with six lateral altars. The central painting of the main altar was made by Pompeo Batoni, depicting the Consecrated Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, while Joaquim Machado de Castro’s 1783 Nativity scene, locked in a dedicated room and featuring about 500 terracotta figurines, is a true gem for art lovers.