Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Lisboa > Mafra > Vila Franca do Rosário > Enxara do Bispo, Gradil e Vila Franca do Rosário
The Church of Vila Franca do Rosário stands in a prominent position, on a high point in the town of Vila Franca do Rosário, which is part of the parish of Enxara do Bispo, Gradil e Vila Franca do Rosário, in the municipality of Mafra, district of Lisbon.
Its location offers a unique perspective over the surrounding area, and its proximity to the local cemetery lends an atmosphere of serenity to the site.
The history of the Church of Vila Franca do Rosário dates back to 1567, the year its construction began. However, its history was marked by a cataclysmic event: the 1755 earthquake, which caused considerable damage to the temple's structure.
After the earthquake, the church underwent a reconstruction process, which, however, did not lead to the full completion of its façade. To ensure its preservation, major restoration work was carried out between 1984 and 1985 to conserve its structure. The recognition of its historical and architectural value is highlighted by its classification as a Property of Public Interest, making it a standout feature in the region's heritage landscape.
The architecture of the Church of Vila Franca do Rosário reveals a symbiosis of influences, with Mannerist and more restrained Baroque features. Its façade, which remains unfinished, is a visible testament to the historical vicissitudes that marked it, namely the interruption of work after the great earthquake of the mid-18th century.
Despite its structural simplicity, the temple's exterior maintains its own dignity, characteristic of the religious buildings of the era in which it was built and rebuilt.
Inside, the temple has a single nave, where the eye is drawn to the ceiling painting depicting Our Lady of the Rosary flanked by Saint Dominic. This central element of the nave contributes to an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation.
The main chapel houses a set of mural paintings illustrating the apparition of the Virgin to a shepherd, narrating significant moments of local devotion. On the high altar is the venerated stone image of Our Lady of the Rosary, the church's patron saint, a focal point of faith and art.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.97369035507969,-9.254086849270047
Coordinates DMS: 38°58'25.3"N 09°15'14.7"W
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