Church of Saint James

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Estremoz > Estremoz > Santo André

Location

The Church of Santiago stands in an urban area, within the walls, in the southwestern part of the town of Estremoz. The building adapts to the slope of the land, fitting harmoniously into the surrounding habitations. It is enclosed by a wall that delimits a small atrium, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The access street leading to the church is paved with marble cobblestones, an iconic material of the region.

Historical Background

The foundations of the Church of Santiago date back to the medieval period, specifically to the 14th century. Initially, its existence was linked to the Order of the Hospital, which would later transform into the Priory of the Order of Malta. Over the following centuries, the temple underwent several adaptations and enrichments. Interventions carried out in the 17th and 18th centuries are noteworthy, adding new characteristics and elements, complementing the original structure without detracting from it.

Architecture and External Details

The structure of the church reveals its medieval origins through its three interior naves. Inside, pointed arch arcades resting on marble pillars are observed, evidencing the robustness of the construction. The wooden ceilings are at different heights, with the central nave being higher, conferring amplitude to the space.

On the main facade, the stone portal stands out, in Gothic style, with its pointed arch and detailed carved decorations, set within a triangular pediment. On the right side, the bell tower is distinguished by its openings and pinnacles that top the structure, completing the monument's external image. A chapel is also visible, exhibiting a ribbed vault ceiling, a remarkable architectural detail, supported by slender columns.

Interior Treasures

Inside the church, in addition to the older nave architecture, decorative elements from later periods are discovered. One of the side chapels, for example, is lined with 17th-century patterned tiles, giving it a particular atmosphere. The altarpieces, dating from the 18th century, display the Baroque style, some in gilded wood carving and others in painted masonry. Particularly noteworthy is an altarpiece crafted from the characteristic marble of Estremoz, a testament to the local mineral and artistic wealth.

The main chapel, separated from the central nave, features a ceiling adorned with paintings and an altarpiece that stands out for its composition and artistic details, inviting contemplation.

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