Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Castelo Branco > Oleiros > Madeirã
Situated in the locality of Madeirã, municipality of Oleiros, the church stands at a prominent point in the village. It is surrounded by its courtyard paved with granite cobblestones, a space that invites a pause to appreciate the building's presence in the tranquil village environment.
The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo (Our Lady of Carmel) has its roots firmly planted in the 16th century, the period when its construction began. However, its history goes back even further, with references to the parish found in medieval documentation.
Over the centuries, the building underwent several construction campaigns and modifications that altered its original appearance. The construction of the bell tower, for example, was a later addition, decided in the second half of the 17th century. This evolution reflects the needs and styles of each era, contributing to the monument's historical richness.
The church features a longitudinal plan, characteristic of religious constructions, composed of a main nave and a chancel that is set back and lower in height. Its exterior volume combines different bodies, with the bell tower standing out, rising on one side of the main facade, giving it a recognizable silhouette.
The main facade, facing west, is divided into vertical sections by pilasters and features the entrance door topped by an angular pediment. Above this door, there is a window that illuminates the interior. The materials used in the construction, such as painted plaster and stone elements, contribute to its integration into the local landscape.
The interior of the church reveals a space divided into three naves, separated by robust columns with Corinthian capitals. The flooring combines wood and tile, and it is possible to observe some ancient tombs on the ground. The nave walls are adorned with a wainscot of tiles.
One of the most notable elements is the nave ceiling, tri-parted and composed of painted coffers depicting various scenes, mainly linked to Old Testament themes. The chancel, a space of great beauty, is covered with 17th and 18th-century tiles, including pieces attributed to important masters of the Lisbon School. In this area, the imposing main altarpiece stands out, a work in gilt carved wood of great artistic value.
Other interior details include the schist stone pulpit attached to one of the columns and lateral altarpieces with tribunes, which complement the church's rich and diverse decoration.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.9435423,-8.041388
Coordinates DMS: 39°56'36.8"N 08°02'29.0"W
Weather Madeirã
On-duty Pharmacy Madeirã
