The Parish of Estrela: Tradition and Exclusivity in the Heart of Lisbon. The current parish of Estrela is an area of Lisbon which, despite its size, possesses a truly exceptional dynamism and cultural and religious diversity. Estrela encompasses the former districts of Lapa, Prazeres, and Santos-o-Velho, stretching from the riverbank to the Basilica area. It was precisely the Basilica of Estrela that gave its name to the parish and its entire surroundings, in memory of a convent built in honor of Our Lady of Estrela in 1572, where the Main Military Hospital is located today. A recent study identifies this area of the city as the second most exclusive in Lisbon, being the residential choice preferred by families with higher incomes and upper-middle class. Historically, this area has been chosen by the most distinguished and wealthy families, as evidenced by the numerous mansions that are still preserved and that belonged to these lineages. The Estrela area is one of the most central in Lisbon, located in the heart of the city. It is here that institutions of great relevance are found, such as the Assembly of the Republic and the Palace of São Bento, the official residence of the Prime Minister.