Discover the Significance of the Warwick Street Church and 24 Golden Square

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory and 24 Golden Square are two iconic landmarks in London, rich in history and closely linked to the Portuguese community and Anglo-Portuguese relations.

The Warwick Street Church

Originally founded in the early 18th century, the church began as a chapel within the Portuguese Embassy. At a time when Catholic worship was restricted by English law, the embassy's chapel provided a crucial sanctuary for London's Catholic community. Under the protection of diplomatic immunity, the chapel grew to serve both embassy officials and local Catholics.

The church's importance was further recognised when Queen Maria II of Portugal had a requiem Mass held here in 1853. Despite challenges, including damage during the anti-Catholic Gordon Riots of 1780, the church was rebuilt and remains a testament to the enduring cultural and spiritual bonds between Portugal and the UK.

Today, this beautiful church continues to host key events for the Portuguese community and serves as a focal point of faith and heritage.

The Portuguese Embassy at Golden Square

Just a short walk from the church, 23-24 Golden Square served as the Portuguese Embassy between 1724 and 1747. It was here that Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, later known as the Marquess of Pombal, lived and served as Ambassador from 1739 to 1744. Pombal later became a celebrated Portuguese statesman, renowned for his leadership and reforms in Portugal.

To commemorate this history, a blue plaque at 24 Golden Square highlights the building's role as a centre of diplomacy and culture. The inscription reads:

The close proximity of the church and the former embassy symbolises the deep historical ties between the two nations, ties that we continue to honour and celebrate today.

This historical backdrop will help attendees appreciate the importance of these landmarks during the upcoming celebration of Corpus Christi and Portuguese National Day. We look forward to welcoming you to this meaningful occasion!