Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Beja > Ourique > Santana da Serra
The Mother Church of Santana da Serra is located in the town of the same name, integrated into the municipality of Ourique. The surrounding area is distinguished by rugged terrain, with hills and valleys that herald the proximity of the mountains, providing the church with a natural and tranquil setting.
The history of the Mother Church of Santana da Serra dates back to 1515. Originally, it was built as a hermitage, a smaller temple, as recorded in historical documents such as the Visitations of the Order of Santiago. Over the centuries, the building underwent significant transformations. It underwent a substantial renovation in the 18th century, acquiring the form we largely know today. Later, in the 19th century, the bell tower was added, built next to the choir loft of the temple.
From an architectural point of view, the church belongs to the Popular Baroque current, a regional adaptation of this style. Its plan is simple, longitudinal in shape, composed of a single nave leading to the chancel, which is rectangular. Inside, we can find elements of interest. Noteworthy is the holy water font, which dates from the Manueline period and was reused from the original hermitage. The main altarpiece, located in the chancel, presents a local interpretation of the late 18th-century Baroque style. Finally, the main altar stands out for its richness, displaying carved woodwork, with gilded and painted (polychrome) details.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.5006556,-8.3001099
Coordinates DMS: 37°30'2.4"N 08°18'0.4"W