Parochial Church of Lanhoso

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Braga > Póvoa de Lanhoso > Lanhoso > Tinocos

Location

The Parish Church of Lanhoso, located in the Tinocos area, is situated on an elevated point in the locality of Lanhoso. This position provides it with a predominantly rural setting, characteristic of the region.

From the churchyard that extends around the church, it is possible to have a wide view of the surrounding landscape, including part of the Cávado river valley.

History and Heritage

Although the current construction is conjecturally from the 18th century, there are references to a church in the parish since at least 1698. Excavations carried out on the site brought to light vestiges such as pottery and tiles with Roman characteristics, suggesting an earlier occupation and a deeper history of the site.

The building was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1982, a recognition that underlines its historical and cultural value within the context of Portuguese heritage.

Architecture and Interiors

The church presents a simple design, with a longitudinal plan composed of a single nave, chancel, and sacristies. The main facade, facing south, stands out for the granite stonework frames that surround the door and the small oculus, despite the recent tile cladding.

A distinctive element of the ensemble is the bell tower, which is physically separated from the main body of the church. Built of granite, it has two arched openings where the bells are located.

Inside, the space is divided into two distinct levels in the nave and the chancel. The wooden ceiling of the nave, in a barrel vault, features a recent painting that simulates coffers. Communication with the chancel is made through a granite chancel arch.

In the chancel, in addition to the two-and-a-half-meter high tile wainscoting in shades of blue and pink, the National Style carved altarpiece stands out, filling the entire back wall, being the most significant artistic element inside the church.

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