Mercy Church of Moncorvo

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Bragança > Torre de Moncorvo > Torre de Moncorvo

Historical Origins

The brotherhood of Misericórdia of Torre de Moncorvo was founded during the 16th century, possibly in the first half of the century. The exact date of the foundation remains unknown.

Picturesque Location

The church is located on the old Rua Direita (Main Street) of the town of Torre de Moncorvo, near the site where the female prison of the time was also built.

Charming Architecture

The church building stands out for its beauty and architectural harmony. Its plan is elongated and consists of a single nave and a chancel.

Renaissance Facade

The facade is a notable example of Renaissance style, with a central arched portal embedded in an ornament called an alfiz. Two images in medallions decorate the arch above the portal.

Artistic Details

The facade is crowned by a triangular pediment ornamented with a frieze and pinnacles. In the center of the pediment, there is a niche with a religious image, added later.

Additional Architectural Elements

The lower part of the facade features a frieze and two gargoyles. A pediment was added in 1864 to accommodate the bell tower.

Spacious Interior

The interior of the church is a spacious area covered by a barrel vault with wooden coffers.

Diversified Decoration

The interior is decorated with a varied artistic program, resulting from different phases of restoration and renovation.

Impressive Pulpits

The church houses two notable pulpits. One of them is near the tribune of the board members, and the other, in Renaissance style, is located on the Epistle side. The latter is carved in granite and has reliefs of saints of the Church.

Baroque Retable

The chancel has an impressive gilded wood retable in Baroque style, representative of national art and culture.

Religious Activities

The church continues to be a place of active worship, where religious celebrations and special events take place throughout the year.

Cultural Heritage

The Church of Misericórdia of Moncorvo is an architectural and artistic treasure that represents the history and cultural heritage of the region, providing a fascinating experience for visitors interested in art and religion.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ficheiro:Igreja_da_Misericórdia_de_Torre_de_Moncorvo_-_Portugal_(14163453595).jpg

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