Church of Saint Martin of Candoso

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Braga > Guimarães > Candoso (São Martinho) > Candoso

Location

The Church of São Martinho de Candoso is located in the locality of the same name, an integral part of the municipality of Guimarães. Situated in the Candoso area, this temple stands as a central point in the urban landscape, bearing witness to centuries of history and community life. Its presence stands out as an element of interest for those exploring the heritage of the Minho region.

A Long History

The roots of the Church of São Martinho de Candoso delve deeply into the Middle Ages, with indications pointing to its existence as early as the mid-11th century. Throughout the centuries, the church underwent various interventions and expansions, with an inscription carved on a stone, dated 1172, which records an important construction phase being particularly noteworthy. This valuable example of Portuguese religious architecture was recognized as a National Monument in 1910, underscoring its historical and artistic relevance in the country's cultural panorama.

Architectural Features

The structure of the church is characterized by its simple rectangular plan, composed of a single nave and a clearly differentiated chancel. On the exterior, it is possible to observe the cornice running along the side facades, supported by corbels, some of which are adorned with interesting zoomorphic motifs. The main facade features a simple portico with a small window. The bell tower, with a rectangular base, displays openings for the bells on its South and West faces, culminating in decorative elements that complete its silhouette.

The Richness of the Interior

The interior space of the Church of São Martinho de Candoso reveals a fascinating encounter of styles and eras. The triumphal arch, which marks the transition between the nave and the chancel, is one of its focal points, displaying geometric, lanceolate, and checkerboard ornaments that evoke Romanesque forms. In the nave, there is a polychrome altar and a pulpit of the same style. Adjacent to the triumphal arch, two side altars of gilded woodwork, dating from the 17th century, are noteworthy, one of which includes the curious depiction of child musicians. The main altarpiece, in the chancel, is also of polychrome woodwork. Near the entrance, a baptismal font with an aesthetic reminiscent of Visigothic art is visible, accentuating the antiquity and profound historical stratification of the site. Vestiges of the old separate entrances for men and women can also be identified, a detail that reflects the social and religious practices of past eras.

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