Parochial Church of São Brás dos Matos

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Alandroal > São Brás dos Matos

Location

Situated in the peaceful rural landscape of São Brás dos Matos, in the municipality of Alandroal, the Parish Church of São Brás dos Matos stands distinctly on the horizon. Its slightly elevated position, framed by a traditional environment and the cemetery to the south, allows it to be visible from some distance, marking the locality's presence with its white silhouette.

Architecture and Historical Features

The Parish Church of São Brás dos Matos stands as a testament to Alentejo's rural religious architecture, with its roots mainly dating back to the 16th century. The chancel, in particular, exhibits Manueline characteristics that point to the beginning of this period, during the reigns of D. Manuel I and D. João III. Throughout the 18th century, the building underwent interventions that added Baroque elements, discernible in some of its decorative details. The church features a rectangular plan, composed of a single nave and a quadrangular chancel, with stepped volumes and distinct roofs. The main facade, facing west, is marked by a simple portal with a lunette, featuring straight lines, crowned by a triangular gable where the bell tower is set.

A Look Inside and Artistic Heritage

Inside, visitors are invited to discover an environment enriched by a remarkable artistic heritage. The nave, with its broken barrel vault ceiling, has side walls partially covered with tiles and houses three altars dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, Saint Anthony, and the Holy Crucified Christ. The chancel, accessed by a round arch, surprises with its prominent rib vault, entirely decorated with Renaissance frescoes featuring floral and naturalist motifs, where the cross of the old Order of Saint Benedict of Avis also stands out.

Among the church's oldest treasures, the Gothic polychrome marble image of Saint Blaise, the patron saint, possibly dating from the 14th century, stands out. The main altar, with its straight and sober lines, houses in niches the figures of Saint Peter, Saint Blaise, and Saint Gregory the Great. The sacristy also holds elements such as a marble lavabo and some votive offerings, complementing the richness of the artistic ensemble of this place of faith and history.

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