Church of the Holy House of Mercy of Messejana

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Beja > Aljustrel > Messejana > Bairro de São Brás

Location

In the heart of the village of Messejana, located within the municipality of Aljustrel, in Alentejo, stands the Church of Santa Casa da Misericórdia. It is situated in Praça Primeiro de Maio, a central square that invites observation of local life and the village's urban surroundings.

A Legacy of Styles

The church represents an interesting blend of eras and artistic trends, exhibiting Manueline, Mannerist, Baroque, and Rococo influences. Its construction dates back to 1570, largely financed by D. Lourenço da Silva, a member of the notable Silva family, who left their mark on Messejana's history.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the building underwent significant renovations that altered its structure and orientation, resulting in the configuration we observe today, where the original main chapel became a side chapel.

The Facade's Expression

The main facade, predominantly Baroque in design, stands out for its simple white color, highlighted by a blue-toned plinth. At its center, a stone portal displays the founding date, 1570, and is flanked by medallions representing the Five Wounds of Christ and a rampant lion, a symbol of the founding family. Above, a large window and a polylobed gable, topped by a cross, complete the ensemble. On the right side, a bell gable with two openings emerges, adding a picturesque touch to the construction.

Interior Riches

Upon entering the portal, the church's nave displays a sobriety that contrasts with the artistic richness of some of its chapels. Of particular interest is the side chapel, which preserves Late Manueline elements. Its ribbed vault, forming an ornate central rosette, is a notable architectural detail. At the keystone of this vault, a coat of arms with a rampant lion is found, alluding to the arms of the Silva family and a direct homage to the church's founder.

This chapel also houses a Mannerist altarpiece, decorated with gilded and polychrome carving, which frames a painting of the Pentecost scene above the tomb of the Dead Lord. In the main chapel, the principal altarpiece dazzles with its richness in gilded and polychrome carving, reflecting Rococo and Late Baroque styles.

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