HISTORY · THE BROTHERHOOD · BRAGA
António Augusto Nogueira da Silva
1901–1976 · Commander and benefactor of the Congregados
He helped complete the Basilica’s façade, transform its interior and establish the church as a vibrant centre of prayer, reconciliation and pastoral life in Braga.
A history of far more than a generous donation: a lasting vision for the church and the city.
1927
Joins the Brotherhood
1958–1976
President of the Brotherhood
1958–1966
Major restoration campaign
1975
Title of Minor Basilica granted
A life closely linked to the Congregados
Born in Paranhos, Porto, on 29 January 1901, António Augusto Nogueira da Silva grew up in Braga. In 1933 he founded Casa da Sorte, a business that expanded across Portugal and beyond. His civic and charitable work made him an important figure in the city’s twentieth-century history.
He joined the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Sorrows and Saint Anne on 4 March 1927. He became vice-president in 1943 and president on 28 April 1958, remaining in office until his death in Lisbon on 1 October 1976.
His legacy extended to cultural, educational and charitable initiatives, including support for families with limited resources. His residence, gardens and artistic collection were later left to the University of Minho and form the basis of the Nogueira da Silva Museum, opposite the Basilica.
A façade completed after almost two centuries
Construction of the church’s monumental façade, designed in the eighteenth century by André Soares, had been left unfinished. Nogueira da Silva mobilised institutional support and brought sustained attention to the works that resumed in 1958. The western tower was completed, the eastern one was crowned, and the new bells and an electric clock were installed in 1963. The statues of Saint Philip Neri and Saint Martin of Dume followed in February 1964.
Restoration serving a pastoral purpose
The work did not end with the towers. Serious structural problems called for the restoration of the roof, crossing arch and interior. The church reopened for worship on 9 June 1966, the Feast of Corpus Christi, after a major programme of renovation and adaptation to the liturgical changes of the Second Vatican Council.
For the Brotherhood’s president, the aim was a “centre of apostolate beyond the parish”: better conditions for worship, more regular services, a resident rector and a dedicated Chapel of Confessions. This vision helped give the Congregados their present role in the centre of Braga.
Devotion, music and new means of communication
His involvement in the annual feast of Our Lady of Sorrows went beyond funding. He promoted dignified celebrations, music and contact with the press. In 1960, a film of the feast was screened privately at Braga’s São Geraldo cinema; the Brotherhood’s historical records mention the film reel.
His initiative also supported the growing pastoral significance of the church. In 1975, during his presidency, the Holy See granted it the title and dignity of Minor Basilica.
A remarkable proposal that was never built
In 1962, Nogueira da Silva proposed an additional wing on the opposite side of the church, mirroring the former Oratory building, with the idea of housing Braga’s courthouse. The project was not carried out. Historical research makes clear that it was a contemporary proposal, not an unexecuted original project by the Oratorians. This little-known episode reveals the ambition of his vision.
A public tribute and a lasting memory
On 9 June 1966, the Brotherhood honoured him during the church’s reopening. A commemorative plaque and a portrait painted by Luís de Campos marked its gratitude for his work. His contribution is still visible in the architecture and the life of the Basilica.
Sources: Rui Ferreira, De Braga para o Mundo: A devoção de Nossa Senhora das Dores na Basílica dos Congregados (2022), especially pp. 75–85 of the digital document; the Brotherhood’s meeting minutes and historical notes.
Explore the historical timeline · History of the Brotherhood · Historical archive
