Parish Church of Portunhos / Church of São Julião

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Cantanhede > Portunhos > Portunhos e Outil

Location

In the center of the village of Portunhos, municipality of Cantanhede. Easy to find, next to the main road.

Origin

Church built in the 18th century on the site of an older temple, believed to have medieval origins.

Façade

Simple and elegant, with a worked stone portal and classical-style columns. At the top, it features a cross and the year 1785 engraved in the stone.

Bell Tower

Located to the right of the entrance, it has a slender shape and is topped with an onion dome. It includes a clock and belfry.

Interior

A single nave with a vaulted ceiling. Sober yet harmonious atmosphere, with the main chapel prominent at the far end.

Main Altar

Altarpiece with neoclassical elements and older details. It is the focal point of the church's interior.

Religious Sculptures

Some images are of medieval origin, carved by local masters.

Image of Saint Julian

A 14th-century stone sculpture, Gothic-style. One of the temple's most valuable pieces, attributed to the workshop of Master Pero from Coimbra.

Side Chapel

Built in the 1950s, it has a rare, Moorish-inspired style. It contrasts with the rest of the church.

Exotic Element

On the opposite side from the chapel, there is a small altar in the same neo-Moorish style.

Exterior Surroundings

A quiet area with stone paving and trees providing pleasant shade. A good spot for taking photographs.

Function

The main parish church, used for masses, religious festivals, and other celebrations, such as those dedicated to the patron saint, Saint Julian.

Access

Accessible on foot or by car. Parking is available nearby.

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