Vila Chã Parish Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Aveiro > Vale de Cambra > Vila Chã > Corredoura

Location

The Parish Church of Vila Chã, also known by its invocation to Our Lady of Purification, is located in the town of Vila Chã, in the municipality of Vale de Cambra. This temple is situated in the Corredoura area, within a walled churchyard, paved with Portuguese cobblestones and accessed by a staircase that precedes its main façade, offering a serene and traditional atmosphere.

Positioned on the northern slope of the Vigues river valley, the church benefits from a surrounding landscape that still retains its agricultural essence. However, due to its proximity to the municipal seat, the areas to the south and east of the building already show the influence of urban expansion from the periphery.

18th-Century Architecture

Built in the early years of the 18th century, this parish church is an example of the religious architecture of its time. It features a longitudinal plan, comprising a nave and a chancel. The main façade is flanked by two bell towers and displays a single rectangular and molded portal, which directly connects to the choir window, crowned by a triangular pediment.

The building's grandeur is enhanced by the pilasters and pinnacles located at the corners of the main façade and on the elevations of the nave and chancel. The cornice moldings, which encircle the gable of the main façade, add an interesting architectural detail. The ensemble, built mostly in granite, reflects a common architectural type in the region, with similarities to other nearby parish churches.

Interior Artistic Details

Inside, the church welcomes visitors with a high choir. The nave's ceiling is arched and wood-paneled, contributing to its atmosphere. One of the highlights is the arrangement of the arches: the triumphal arch and the two collateral arches, which are open, creating an imposing triple arcade. The faces of these arches are crafted to simulate cushions, a decorative detail that deserves attention.

The pulpit, located on the Epistle side, features a stone basin supported by a corbel, and its railing is made of wood, with carved details. The altarpieces and valances, which adorn the altars, are made of wood painted in white and gold. The main altarpiece, in particular, is representative of the style from the D. Pedro II period, exhibiting twisted columns, enveloped by elements simulating grapevines, and small figurative reliefs at its base.

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