Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Beja > Vidigueira > Vidigueira > Loteamento da Tapada da Estrada das Tendas
The Church of São Francisco is located in Largo de São Francisco, in Vidigueira. It is integrated into the town's urban fabric, standing out in its square. The surroundings reflect the serenity and typical characteristics of Alentejo architecture, with a nearby cross complementing the atmosphere of the space.
This temple was built in the year 1732. It originated as a church of the Third Order of Saint Francis and, subsequently, began to serve as Vidigueira's parish church. Its construction was sponsored, as recorded on a plaque on the facade, by Theodozio de Siqra, with the aim of spiritual benefit for the souls of those who remembered him.
The church displays a Baroque style that is particularly prominent on its main facade. A rich mortar decoration is observed, featuring ornamental motifs such as shell-work, volutes, and diamond points, characteristic elements of the Joanine period. The facade is divided into distinct sections, featuring a semicircular pediment and a decorated bell tower, while the main portal has a curved stone lintel.
Upon entering, one finds a single-nave space, with a simple barrel vault contributing to its ambiance. There is a high choir supported by an ornate wooden railing. The chancel, narrower than the nave, houses a remarkable central element: a gilded and polychrome carved wooden altarpiece niche, framed by arches and pilasters. Within it is placed the image of Our Lady of Relics, a figure of local veneration, which according to historical accounts, was a gift from Queen D. Maria I.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.2130643,-7.7978271
Coordinates DMS: 38°12'47.0"N 07°47'52.2"W
Weather Vidigueira
On-duty Pharmacy Vidigueira
