Serpins Main Church or Church of Our Lady of Help

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Lousã > Serpins

Location

The Mother Church of Serpins, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Socorro, is located in Serpins, Lousã municipality, in the Ponte area. Its position is unique, standing isolated on a hillock within the urban fabric. This positioning gives it visual prominence in the village landscape, making it a landmark for visitors to the area.

A Layered Past

This temple, as we observe it today, was built in the 18th century, with the portico bearing the date 1742. However, its history is much older, as the current construction stands on the foundations of a pre-existing temple. During improvement works carried out in the 20th century, vestiges were discovered that point to an earlier construction, probably dating back to the Middle Ages. This continuity through the centuries underlines the lasting relevance of this site for the community of Serpins.

Architectural and Artistic Details

The church features a longitudinal plan, typical of religious architecture of the era, and stands out for its three-story bell tower, adjoined to the main façade. Inside, the single nave opens into two side chapels and collateral altars, creating a space for devotion. The chancel, one of the most interesting points, houses a richly worked altarpiece, adorned with Solomonic columns and a throne. In the former Chapel of the Sacrament, to the left of the main altar, is the venerated image of Our Lady of Socorro. This sculpture, made of polychrome stone, is a piece of particular value, dated to the 16th century, and likely belonged to the temple that preceded the current construction. The chapel is also adorned by a brass lamp. On the opposite side, a chapel displays a panel of Saint Christopher in a popular style.

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