Church of the Savior (Alcáçova)

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Viana do Alentejo > Alcáçovas > Bairro da Lage

Location

The Church of the Savior stands in the picturesque town of Alcáçovas, within the municipality of Viana do Alentejo, in the heart of the Évora district. It is located in the Bairro da Lage, harmoniously integrating into the urban and historical landscape of this Alentejo town.

Memory and Historical Legacy

The history of the Church of the Savior dates back to ancient times, with its origins rooted in an old castle chapel from 1308. The building seen today, however, had its genesis between 1530 and 1535, marking a period of significant renovation. The recognition of its heritage value was sealed in 1993 when it was classified as a Property of Public Interest, a distinction that also includes its churchyard and the accompanying stone cross.

Architecture and Stylistic Transitions

The architecture of the Church of the Savior is an eloquent testimony to a transitional phase, where robust Renaissance forms meet and dialogue with the emerging decorative richness of the Baroque style. This fusion gives it a unique identity, making it a remarkable example of artistic evolution during the period in which it was erected.

Interior Highlights

Upon entering the sacred space, one discovers an interior that invites contemplation. The church houses four side chapels, each with its own particularities, and a baptistery, which complement the main nave. The focal point is the chancel, whose ceiling is distinguished by its elaborate decoration with the coats of arms of benefactors. Among these, the royal arms of King Manuel I and those of the Holy See stand out, symbols of the royal and ecclesiastical connection to the temple's history.

The Henriques Pantheon and Treasures

One of the most remarkable features of the Church of the Savior is the Henriques Pantheon, a lineage of former lords of Alcáçovas, whose tombs are found in the central aisle. This space is a repository of the region's historical memory, holding the mortal remains of figures who shaped the local destiny. Additionally, tradition tells of the existence of four wooden lions, unique objects that, according to the narrative, were offered by Vasco da Gama and brought from distant India, lending the temple a touch of exoticism and historical adventure.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Matriz_do_Salvador_de_Alcáçovas

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