The construction of the Santa Luzia Basilica, dedicated to Santa Luzia and the Sacred Heart of Jesus, commenced in 1904 and was completed in 1959. The project was led by architect Miguel Ventura Terra, who was succeeded by Miguel Nogueira upon Terra’s death in 1919.

The basilica’s architectural style is Romanesque-Byzantine, and it exemplifies the revivalist architecture of the turn of the century. The structure’s impressive rose windows are the second largest in Europe and the largest in the Iberian Peninsula.

Visitors can access the top of Monte de Santa Luzia by climbing the steps, taking the funicular, or driving. The location provides a stunning view of a significant portion of the Lima river valley, as well as a vast expanse of coastline to the north and south of the estuary and the verdant mountain range. This view has been recognized by National Geographic Magazine as the third most beautiful in the world.