Church of Our Lady of Ó or Parish Church of Ançã

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Cantanhede > Ançã > União das Freguesias de Ançã e Vil de Matos

Location

The Church of Nossa Senhora do Ó, also known as the Ançã Main Church or Ançã Parish Church, is located in the town of Ançã, in the municipality of Cantanhede, Portugal.

Classification

This church was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1983, standing out for its historical and architectural importance.

History

, In the 17th century, the church acquired much of its current appearance, including the Mannerist portal with Corinthian columns and the structure of the three naves with arcades supported by Doric columns.

, In the 18th and 19th centuries, after a significant fire, new works were carried out, including the renovation of the facade and the creation of the main altarpiece in Ançã Stone.

Architecture and Notable Elements

, The Mannerist portal stands out for its ornamentation with Corinthian columns and volutes.

, The interior structure is composed of three naves and a chancel with three chapels, the main chapel being vaulted with limestone coffers.

, The imagery includes religious figures sculpted in Ançã Stone, such as the images of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, and a Saint John the Baptist in the style of the school of João de Ruão.

, The main altarpiece, made of Ançã Stone, is a remarkable example of the Joanine style.

Side Chapels

, The side chapels have examples of gilded carvings from the 17th and 18th centuries.

, The image of Our Lady with the Child, a 15th-century sculpture, is attributed to Master Afonso, known for its quality and detail.

Facade

The facade presents a balanced design with a large central window and two smaller windows, corresponding to the three naves of the church. This renovation is possibly the work of Manuel Alves Macamboa, a master at the service of the University of Coimbra at the time.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_de_Nossa_Senhora_do_Ó_(Ançã)

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