Dressing the Sacred. The chasubles of the National Treasure of the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist

Exhibition

Temporary Exhibition Gallery, Museum of São Roque

13 November 2026 – 3 January 2027

Opening: 12 November, 6.00 pm, at the Church of São Roque

Dressing the Sacred. The chasubles of the National Treasure of the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist presents an exceptional group of liturgical vestments from the collection of the Chapel of Saint John the Baptist, recently designated a National Treasure. Commissioned by King John V from the most prestigious workshops in Rome for the Royal Chapel installed in the Church of São Roque, these chasubles stand out for their artistic quality, rich materials and symbolic significance within Christian worship.

The exhibition explores the origins and development of the chasuble, its relationship with liturgy and ritual, the symbolism of liturgical colours, and the role of textiles in expressing the taste, splendour and magnificence of Baroque Rome.

Bringing together heritage, history, art and spirituality, and curated by Father Francisco Campos, SJ, Rector of the Church of São Roque, at the invitation of the Department of Culture, the exhibition invites visitors to discover one of the most important collections of liturgical textiles preserved in its original setting.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10.00 am-12.00 pm and 1.30 pm-6.00 pm.

Closed on Mondays, on 24, 25 and 31 December, 1 January, and during religious services at the Church of São Roque.

Free admission

Guided tours are available in English upon prior booking and subject to availability.

Bookings and Information
Museum of São Roque
213 235 449 | museusaoroque@scml.pt