Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Lisboa > Mafra > Azueira e Sobral da Abelheira > Livramento
The Church of Nossa Senhora do Livramento is located in the area of Livramento, a small village integrated into the parish of Azueira e Sobral da Abelheira, in the municipality of Mafra. Its position within the community offers a glimpse into local life and the heritage rooted in the region.
The origin of this church is deeply connected to a narrative of popular devotion. At the heart of this story lies an ancient image of Our Lady, which was kept at Quinta das Lapas. According to oral tradition, the presence of this image was associated with the end of a severe plague that afflicted the region, which quickly fostered great veneration.
Driven by this faith and the commitment of the local population, together with Father Mateus Ribeiro, the construction of a hermitage to dignify and house the image began in 1655. After the completion of the works, the image was solemnly transported to the new temple, marking the beginning of this place of worship's history.
The church observed today is the result of a significant reconstruction initiated in 1786, after the 1755 earthquake caused the destruction of the original building. Its façade, of clear Baroque influence, is distinctive and flanked by two imposing bell towers, elements which, by their design, may still bear traces of the 17th-century period.
Inside, attention falls on the fresco paintings that adorn the space. In the chancel, a retable with composite columns stands out, whose shafts are fluted in shades of blue and gold, harmonizing with the polychrome tilework featuring vegetal motifs. The image of the patroness, Nossa Senhora do Livramento, occupies the place of honor on the throne, flanked by 18th-century figures of Saint Anthony and Saint John the Baptist. The church also features side altars with imagery and some panels dating from the late 16th century.
Throughout the centuries, the Church of Nossa Senhora do Livramento has been a central point for manifestations of faith and tradition in the region. In the past, the temple received visits from two important círios (pilgrimages) from neighboring localities. Although the number of círios has changed over time, the tradition remains alive.
Currently, the community's connection to this place is visible in the annual celebration of the círio da Murteira, which takes place on August 15th. This tradition maintains the church as a hub for gathering and celebration, reflecting the memory and continuity of popular devotion.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.0064719,-9.2888757
Coordinates DMS: 39°00'23.3"N 09°17'20.0"W
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