Church of Saint Marina of Real or Church of Saint Marina or Parish Church of Real

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Aveiro > Castelo de Paiva > Real > Crasto

Location

The Church of Santa Marinha is located in the parish of Real, in the municipality of Castelo de Paiva, integrated into the area known as Crasto. The temple stands on a slightly elevated plain, in a quiet peri-urban area, surrounded by residential houses and agricultural land. The churchyard surrounding the church is delimited by a granite wall with balustrades, offering a serene view and space for contemplation. To the north of the church, the local cemetery is located.

Access is marked by two entrances, a main one with a staircase and a side one, both decorated with stone statuary that adds a unique character to the exterior space.

Architecture and Structure

Built in the 18th century, the church maintains a Mannerist structure visible on the main facade, highlighting the central portal flanked by Tuscan pilasters and topped by a niche with the image of the patron saint Santa Marinha. The facade culminates in a triangular pediment with a circular oculus in the tympanum.

The plan is rectangular, composed of the nave, chancel, sacristy, and a bell tower attached to the left side. The tower has three registers and a bulbous dome, with round-arched bell chambers and a granite clock. The side facades feature tall, narrow windows, allowing soft illumination of the interior.

Interior and Decoration

The church's interior is marked by a late Rococo style, with gilded altarpieces and paintings illustrating the Stations of the Passion of Christ on the nave ceiling. The walls are partly covered with blue and white tiles, typical of Portuguese art, especially in the chancel.

Notable features include the confronting gilded pulpits, the choir loft in wood painted with a marble effect, and the main altar adorned with columns and phytomorphic motifs, all enveloped in a sober and harmonious atmosphere that invites reflection.

Historical and Heritage Value

The Church of Santa Marinha de Real is one of the oldest religious buildings in the municipality, with its construction dating back to the mid-18th century. Its historical and artistic importance was recognized in 1977 when it was classified as a Monument of Public Interest (MIP).

The architectural and artistic complex of the church, which includes the churchyard with six stone sculptures of apostle saints, is a testament to the region's religious and cultural heritage, reflecting the traditions and faith of the local community throughout the centuries.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt