Church of Our Lady of Grace of Divor

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Évora > Nossa Senhora da Graça do Divor > Moinho de Vento

Location

Situated in the small locality of Nossa Senhora da Graça do Divor, in the municipality of Évora, this church stands on a slight elevation of the terrain, lending it a notable presence in the rural Alentejo landscape. Its positioning is historically linked to the ancient Herdade da Água da Prata Estate, an area fundamental for Évora's water supply since the 16th century, through the famous aqueduct that still marks the region today.

Outside the temple, a churchyard with a marble cruzeiro (stone cross) invites contemplation of the tranquil surroundings and the church's façade itself, offering a serene glimpse of the local heritage.

Historical Background

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça do Divor is a monument of profound antiquity, with references to its existence dating back to the first half of the 12th century, although the construction of the current building dates mainly from the 16th century over earlier structures. Over the centuries, the space has undergone various interventions that enriched its architectural and artistic features, remaining an active place of worship.

The recognition of its patrimonial and cultural value was formalized in 2014, when the church was classified as a Monument of Public Interest, affirming its importance in the context of Portuguese heritage.

Art and Architecture

The church's façade is distinguished by a remarkable Mannerist marble portico in two colors, which stands as an architectural element of great monumental effect. Its design is attributed to Diogo de Torralva, a prominent 16th-century architect, making it a singular detail for a building located in this rural area of Alentejo.

Upon entering, visitors are enveloped by one of the richest collections of 17th-century tiles existing in the municipality of Évora. The nave walls are almost entirely covered by "carpet" style tile panels, with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Worth noting is the presence of unique motifs, such as winged mermaids supporting laurel wreaths with emblems in praise of the Virgin, grotesque compositions in the triumphal arch, and even curious figures like exotic birds and a monkey, which adorn the friezes. The interior is completed with a Rococo gilded woodcarving altarpiece and stuccoes on the vaults, revealing an artistic harmony that invites careful observation.

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