Saint Peter's Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Lousã > Lousã > Lousã e Vilarinho

Location

The Church of São Pedro is located within the urban fabric of Lousã, in the locality of the same name, in an area that evokes the tranquility and identity of the municipality. It is situated in an isolated setting, with a churchyard extending in front of it, providing an open and inviting space for a pause and contemplation.

A Historical and Architectural Legacy

This temple, classified as a Property of Public Interest, represents a significant landmark in Lousã's heritage. Its construction, which spanned between the 16th and 18th centuries, reveals a history of successive remodelling and interventions, resulting in a fusion of styles that narrates the architectural evolution over time. The church features a longitudinal plan, consisting of a single nave and a chancel, with a gabled roof.

The Imposing Bell Tower and the Facade Images

One of the most notable features of the Church of São Pedro is its bell tower. Recognized as one of the most beautiful in the region, it stands out for its elegance and proportion, exuding a style reminiscent of the D. João V period. The builders' mastery is visible in the contrast between the dark, rough Alveite stonework and the whiteness of the walls. Inside, three bells echo, works by the campanologist Sebastião Serrilha de Cantanhede. On the main facade, three niches also house images of Our Lady with the Child, Saint Peter, and Saint Paul, stone sculptures from Ançã, dated to the mid-16th century and attributed to a Coimbra workshop.

The Artistic Treasures of the Interior

Upon crossing the church's threshold, visitors are invited to explore an interior rich in artistic details. The main nave is adorned with coffered ceilings, while the chancel displays a pentagonal framed ceiling, both carefully painted. The main altarpiece is framed by imposing Solomonic columns, adding a touch of grandeur to the space. On the sides of the chancel, two altarpieces enrich the ensemble. On the left flank, the Chapel of Our Lady of Solitude stands out, with a circular gable at the head, inviting a closer observation of its elements.

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