Church of Our Lady of the Assumption

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Faro > Vila Real de Santo António > Vila Nova de Cacela > Cacela Velha

Location

Located at the highest point of historic Cacela Velha, in the locality of Vila Nova de Cacela, this church enjoys an exceptional position. From its churchyard, a vast and serene panorama over the Ria Formosa can be contemplated, stretching along a large part of the coast to the west. Its striking presence integrates into the classified core of Cacela Velha, benefiting from the natural setting of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Historical Notes

The history of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção dates back to the 13th century, when a primitive medieval construction stood on the same site. The church we observe today is, in essence, the result of a significant reconstruction carried out in 1518 upon the ruins of the original edifice. Throughout the centuries, and after the devastating earthquake of 1755, the church was again subject to an important rehabilitation work in 1795, integrating elements from different eras into its architecture.

Architectural and Artistic Details

Upon approaching, the church's main portal reveals itself as a notable example of the Renaissance style. Prominently featured are the relief-carved busts of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, flanked by pilasters with rich and varied decoration, where one can observe gargoyles, axes, tridents, angels' heads, dragons, bows, and quivers. Inside, the space is organized into three naves, separated by pointed arch stone arches, supported by columns with octagonal capitals, adorned with motifs such as hemispheres or ropes. Among the elements that enrich the ambiance, an old iron grille stands out, artistically worked with figures representing Saint Joseph, Our Lady, Saint John the Evangelist, and Saint Mary Magdalene. The Chapel of Our Lady of the Martyrs, in turn, is notable for its ribbed vault, and the high altar in the main chapel, with its three registers, completes the set of pieces that tell the history and faith of this place.

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