Church of Saint Andrew

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Lisboa > Mafra > Mafra > Quinta de Santa Bárbara

Location

Located in Vila Velha, about 1 km from the Convent of Mafra, on the old Rua Serpa Pinto.

Dating

Built in the 14th century, it is the oldest church in the parish of Mafra and one of the best examples of parish Gothic churches of the time in Portugal.

Architecture

The church has a simple structure with three naves, thick walls and low height, characteristics of the archaic Gothic style. The chancel is pentagonal in shape and is reinforced by buttresses with decorative gargoyles.

Notable Elements

The Gothic portal on the south side and the main portal, both decorated with columns and plant details, are highlights of the facade.

Restorations and Alterations

Over the centuries, it underwent several interventions. In the 17th century, the chancel was redecorated with gilded carvings and a bell tower and the Brotherhood house were added. In the 20th century, the church was restored, removing the Baroque elements and trying to recover its original medieval style.

National Monument

It was classified as a National Monument in 1935, due to its historical and architectural importance.

Historical Tombs

Inside, D. Diogo Afonso de Sousa and his wife are buried, whose tombs, decorated with heraldic motifs, are located in the side naves.

Historical Relevance

It is believed that Pedro Hispano, later Pope John XXI, was a parish priest in this church in the 13th century.

Excavations

Between 1997 and 1998, excavations were carried out that revealed an old medieval baptistery and a necropolis that was used until the 19th century.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_de_Santo_André_(Mafra)