A SUMPTUOUS CHAPEL.

Daily Telegraph (Napier), Issue 3718, 15 June 1883, Page 4

A SUMPTUOUS CHAPEL.

There is in Lisbon an institution known as the Misericordia, whose object is to alleviate all kinds of distress. One peculiar duty which the directors undertake is the care of criminals. From the time tho death penalty is decreed tho criminal is allowed three days to prepare for death. Duringthis time'he is in charge of theMiserieordia. AVhcn the hour comes he is clothed by the brothers is white, a cord is put round his neck a crucifix in his hand, and accompanied by a priest on cither side, he proceeds to the place of execution. Connected with this establishment is the Church of St. Roch, which contains probably the most sumptuous chapel in Christendom. The story goes that Don Juan A\, struck with its bareness and the fact of its dedication to the saint of his name, resolved to make it a marvel of splendour. It was erected in Rome regardless of cost, and, when completed, put up in St. Peter's, where the Pope first officiated on its altar. It was then shipped in pieces to Lisbon The wall on the outside of tho principal arch is coral, the arch of alabaster. The pavement is rich niosiae, inlaid with porphyry. The altar steps are of porphyry and "bronze, the rails of vcrd antique. Thero arc eight columns of lapis lazuli, their bases being alabaster studded with amethysts, their capitals bronze. The altar is of lapis lazuli, jasper, and amethysts. Tho lamps are of exquisitely wrought silver. The chapel is further enriched by entablatures of high art in silver aud magnificent pictures. Napoleon contemplated the removal of the whole to France, but before it could be arranged his star waned.