Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Castelo Branco > Castelo Branco > Castelo Branco > Sé e São Pedro
Located in the city of Castelo Branco, the complex of the Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora das Graças is situated in the Sé and São Pedro area, a zone that reflects the urban and historical density of the place. Its position, near the northern exit of the city, grants it particular visibility, marking one of the traditional limits of the urban core and serving as a point of reference for those traversing the city.
The history of this complex dates back to the early 16th century, with its foundations laid in 1519 with the construction of a small convent, often referred to as the "conventinho" (little convent). Initially under the purview of Franciscan friars, it was in 1526 that Augustinian friars settled there, dedicating it to Nossa Senhora das Graças (Our Lady of Graces). Over time, the original dimension of the "conventinho" gave way to a larger and more elaborate structure, where the primitive building came to function as the church of the new and larger convent itself.
A significant change occurred in 1834 when, following the dissolution of Religious Orders in Portugal, the convent was handed over to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Castelo Branco. This institution reconfigured the space to house the city's hospital, and has continued since then to play a vital role in supporting and serving the local community.
The current building is a notable example of Arquitetura Chã (Plain Architecture), a style prevalent in the late 16th century, characterized by its sobriety and functionality. When exploring the complex, the robust and clear structure of the cloister stands out, serving as one of the focal points of the architecture. In the church, behind the main altar, are the Chapel and the Fonseca Family Burial Chamber (Carneiro dos Fonsecas). This space was built by Diogo da Fonseca, a prominent figure of the region, with the purpose of serving as a family mausoleum, enriching the complex with a testament to local history and its lineages.
Beyond its religious and sheltering functions, the Convent of Graça played a significant role in the dissemination of knowledge. During the Augustinian period, the institution stood out as a teaching center, where Rational Philosophy was taught. Prominent figures, such as bishops from Guarda, shared their knowledge here, underscoring its importance as an intellectual hub in the region. Additionally, the convent holds the tomb of Simão da Costa, father of Bartolomeu da Costa, linking it to other historical personalities of Castelo Branco and reinforcing its deep connection with the city's past.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.8287094,-7.494169
Coordinates DMS: 39°49'43.4"N 07°29'39.0"W
Weather Castelo Branco
On-duty Pharmacy Castelo Branco
