Mercy Church of Silves

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Faro > Silves > Silves > Centro Histórico

Location and Access

- The Igreja da Misericórdia de Silves is located in the city center, near the Cathedral and the Castle, in an elevated area, making it one of the main tourist attractions of the city.

- The church was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1961.

Architectural Features

- The church's facade is simple, but with important details, such as the Manueline portal, one of the most emblematic examples of this style in the region.

- The Manueline portal is rich in details, with elements such as sculptures of trunks and foliage, as well as an inscription with the name of Misericórdia (Mercy).

- The church has a simple plan with a single nave, typical of the Mannerist style, and is covered by a vault with decorated ribs.

Altarpiece and Decoration

- The altarpiece is one of the highlights of the church, with an impressive Mannerist artwork from the 17th century.

- The altarpiece has gilded wood carvings and nine paintings, including a large canvas of the Visitation of the Virgin, and others representing scenes from Calvary and the works of mercy.

- The paintings are of great historical and artistic value, reflecting the religious and social context of the time.

History and Function

- The Igreja da Misericórdia de Silves was built in the early 16th century, being one of the oldest associated with the Santa Casa da Misericórdia (Holy House of Mercy) in Portugal.

- Over the centuries, the church underwent several modifications and restorations, especially after the 1755 earthquake.

- During the monarchy and the Republic, the church was used for various functions, including as a headquarters for electoral assemblies and as a primary school, before being restored and reopened to the public.