Church of Our Lady of Grace and Saint Joseph and Atouguia da Baleia Interpretative Center

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Leiria > Peniche > Atouguia da Baleia

Location

Erected in the heart of the village of Atouguia da Baleia, the old Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça and São José is situated in a small square flanked by traditional houses. The urban setting is tranquil, with narrow cobblestone streets that evoke the historical memory of this former conventual domain.

The surroundings maintain the medieval layout of the settlement, offering visitors a serene environment, just a few minutes' walk from the main arteries of the village and viewpoints overlooking the coastal plain.

Historical Value

The origin of the temple dates back to the 15th century, when a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Grace emerged, built by the Third Order friars of St. Francis. Rebuilt in 1747 and repaired after the 1755 earthquake with contributions from the faithful and the Municipal Council, the church preserves traces of this long journey of devotion and resilience.

In 1807, the introduction of St. Joseph as the principal patron was reflected in the reorganization of the main altar, and despite the extinction of religious orders in 1834, this space remained connected to the community until the official closure of ceremonies in the mid-19th century.

Architecture and Art

Baroque in style, the building reveals an octagonal plan reinforced by diagonal buttresses. The main facade displays a curved lintel portal, surmounted by the coat of arms of the Third Order, and a wavy pediment with an oculum painted in trompe-l’œil. The bell tower, resting on one of the buttresses, features open belfries and a spire with pinnacles.

Inside, the gilded carved altarpiece highlights the central image of St. Joseph, flanked by sculptures of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Barbara, all under careful polychromy. This artistic ensemble well illustrates the sacred art of the 18th century.

Cultural Space

Integrated into the Interpretive Center of Atouguia da Baleia since 2012, the church now functions as a multidisciplinary stage. The former naves host temporary exhibitions, concerts, conferences, and poetry readings, while also maintaining occasional religious celebrations in honor of its patrons.

The interpretive center complements the visit with documentary content on local history and Franciscan tradition, offering an experience that combines material heritage and cultural programs adapted to diverse audiences.

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