Church of Saint Christopher

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Montemor-o-Novo > São Cristóvão > Courela do Açude

Location

The Church of São Cristóvão is situated in Courela do Açude, an integral part of the locality of São Cristóvão, in the municipality of Montemor-o-Novo. It is located on the edge of the village agglomeration, in a position thought to have been the root of a hill, and near the stream of the same name. Its main facade faces west.

Origins and Architecture

The Church of São Cristóvão is a landmark of profound history, with its origins dating back to the early 16th century. Ancient documents already mention it as an established church before 1576, which underlines its antiquity. An architectural examination of its apse, for example, reveals elements that confirm its Gothic tendency, dating from the first half of the 16th century.

Artistic Heritage and Evolution

Over the centuries, the temple underwent significant transformations, with the 17th century bringing reforms that shaped part of its current appearance. Inside, it is possible to observe vestiges of 17th-century mural paintings, sometimes visible beneath underlying layers of lime, which tell stories of the church's past. The sacristy, in turn, was remodelled in 1704 and houses important artistic pieces. Two notable paintings stand out: The Holy Trinity, which reflects the Mannerist school of the Évora cycle, and Saint Michael and the Souls in Purgatory, a work attributed to Jerónimo Corte Real.

The Devotion to Saint Christopher

The church is dedicated to Saint Christopher, a central figure and protector of travelers and against thunderstorms, to whom legend attributes the carrying of the Child Jesus. Inside the temple, visitors can admire a remarkable 16th-century wooden sculpture of the patron saint. This robust piece depicts Saint Christopher with the Child Jesus on his left shoulder, symbolising his deep connection with the faith and history of the local community.

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