Mercy Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Mourão > Mourão > Bairro Doutor Baltazar Rebelo de Sousa

Location

The Church of Misericórdia is located in Mourão, in the Doutor Baltazar Rebelo de Sousa Neighborhood, right in Republic Square. The building stands out as an integral part of a remarkable architectural ensemble, forming a monumental culmination in the square. It is contiguous to the Church of São Francisco, to which it connects via an arch, and in its surroundings are also the old buildings of the Hospital of Santa Casa da Misericórdia and a granary, both from the 18th century, which complement the historical atmosphere of the area.

The Genesis of the Brotherhood and Construction

The presence of the Misericórdia in Mourão dates back to the year 1548, with the foundation of the Brotherhood by Pedro de Mendonça Furtado, the town's chief alcaide. For about two centuries, the Brotherhood operated from provisional facilities, located near the Castle. The construction of the temple seen today began in the first half of the 18th century, more specifically during the reign of D. João V, representing a significant milestone in the institution's history.

Architectural and Artistic Features

Dated 1743, the Church of Misericórdia presents an aesthetic that, despite its compact volume and rectilinear exterior profile, embraces the exuberance of the Baroque style. On the exterior, the placement of lateral pinnacles, a characteristic element, can be noted. Inside, the Baroque decoration is notably manifested through the gilded woodcarving that adorns the altarpieces.

The use of white marble is a highlight, visible on the pulpit, dated 1719, and on the main portal. This portal, which marks the consecration of the temple with the year 1743 engraved at the base of the cartouche, displays the Portuguese crown and shield. Above the main chapel's altar, there is the Joanine royal coat of arms. The main chapel also houses mural paintings with religious allegories and, in the vaulting, the theme of the Sacred Heart. In the high choir, near the entrance, the schist parapet ornamented with oculi is noteworthy, a distinctive detail of the space.

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