Church of Saint Alexis or Parish Church of Saint Alexis of Restoration

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Beja > Moura > Safara e Santo Aleixo da Restauração > Santo Aleixo da Restauração

Location

The church is located in Santo Aleixo da Restauração, in the parish of Safara and Santo Aleixo da Restauração, in the municipality of Moura, district of Beja, in Portugal.

National Monument

The Church of Santo Aleixo is classified as a National Monument since 1939, recognizing its historical and cultural importance.

History

The current church is the second building dedicated to Santo Aleixo on the same site. The first was destroyed after the Restoration War. The resistance of the inhabitants against the Spanish invader resulted in the toponym of the parish, "Santo Aleixo da Restauração" (Santo Aleixo of the Restoration).

Architecture

The church was rebuilt in 1683 and expanded in 1733. It has a Mannerist style in the nave and Baroque elements on the facade. Highlights include the facade with an undulating pediment, the segmental arch portal, and the bell tower with a dome.

Interior features

The interior of the church has a single nave covered by a round barrel vault. The side walls feature blind arcades similar to false chapels. The chancel has a round triumphal arch and is decorated with figurative tiles from the 18th century.

Main altarpiece

The main altarpiece is a gilded wood carving in the national style (Estilo Nacional). The interior decoration includes stucco representing the Stations of the Cross and baskets of flowers on the walls of the nave.

Panoramic view

From the churchyard, it is possible to enjoy a stunning view over the surrounding landscape, with fields and typical houses of the region.

Historical significance

The church is a place that allows you to learn about the history of the parish of Santo Aleixo da Restauração, a place with musical and cultural tradition.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Paroquial_de_Santo_Aleixo_da_Restauração

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