Church of Saint Mary Major

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Guarda > Fornos de Algodres > Rancosinho > Algodres

Location

The Church of Santa Maria Maior is located in the heart of the village of Algodres, in the municipality of Fornos de Algodres. It is situated in an urban environment characteristic of the region, flanked by granite constructions and facing the public road and a small square, which provides a tranquil setting for the building. The surrounding area evokes the history and rurality of the region, with traces of ancient stones and indications of a medieval tomb nearby.

From Romanesque to Baroque: An Architectural Journey

This parish church is a living testament to centuries of history and architectural interventions. Its foundation probably dates back to the 12th century, the Romanesque period, from which the main portal, one of its oldest features, still survives. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the church underwent successive remodels and extensions that transformed its original structure, incorporating new stylistic elements.

On the main facade, in addition to the Romanesque portal with a slightly pointed arch and columns, a three-bay belfry, added in the 18th century, defines the silhouette of the bell tower. A notable aspect on the exterior, especially on the rear facade, is the presence of a sculpted anthropomorphic figure of medieval character, popularly known as "Algodres", which invites close and enigmatic observation.

Interior Artistic Richness

The interior of the Church of Santa Maria Maior, with plastered and white-painted walls, reveals an interesting contrast to the robustness of its granite exterior. The nave and the chancel are covered by false wooden barrel vaults, which contribute to a welcoming and solemn atmosphere. The choir loft and the quadrangular pulpit, both in wood, are important decorative elements.

The chancel is particularly rich in artistic elements, notably the gilded altarpiece of "national style", which fills the end wall with an imposing tribune. The chancel ceiling is noteworthy, with 28 painted coffers from the 18th century, illustrating hagiographic themes, some of which reveal more archaic characteristics, perhaps inspired by ancient engravings. The side altars, flanking the triumphal arch, feature gilded and polychrome carving with a Mannerist structure, notable for the reuse of Hispano-Moresque tiles at their base, forming geometric and phytomorphic patterns. In the sacristy, a 17th-century painted panel, naive and popular in character, depicts a complete apostolate, adding a touch of local art to the visit.

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