Church of the Holy House of Mercy of Arez / Chapel of Mercy of Arez

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Portalegre > Nisa > Arez

Location

Situated in the locality of Arez, municipality of Nisa, this church is harmoniously integrated into the urban fabric of the village, on a mid-slope point. A small cobbled churchyard and a walkway surround its south facade, inviting a calm approach to the building and its surroundings.

Historical Heritage and Exterior Features

The Church of Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Arez, also known as the Chapel of Misericórdia, is a testament to the religious architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries. Its architectural style combines Renaissance and Mannerist elements, with vernacular and neoclassical influences, giving it a unique character. The main facade, facing west, stands out for its Renaissance granite portal. This portal is adorned with sculpted details such as mascarons, fantastic animal figures, and a human bust on the keystone of the arch, which reveal the artistic attention of the era. At the top, a stone bell tower crowns the gable of the building.

The Richness of the Interior

Inside, the church features a single nave, covered by a remarkable chestnut wood ceiling, resting on beams and joists, a construction solution that reflects regional tradition. The choir loft, also in wood, adds depth to the space. A whitewashed granite pulpit displays an inscription dating its probable construction to 1618. The triumphal arch, separating the nave from the chancel, is built of dressed stone, with Tuscan pillars.

The chancel, deeper, has a coffered vaulted ceiling, creating a distinct visual effect. However, it is the side altars that truly capture the eye due to their originality: they are decorated with trompe l'oeil mural paintings, dating from the 18th century, which simulate altarpiece compositions. The main altarpiece, in painted wood, is enriched by composite columns, a central painting depicting Jerusalem, symbols of the Passion in the tympanum, and carved cherubs, centering the image of Christ on the Cross. A gilded and polychrome wooden tabernacle completes the ensemble.

Legacy and Cultural Value

This building, classified as a Monument of Municipal Interest since 2017, is a valuable element of Arez's heritage. Originally a brotherhood church, the Church of Misericórdia now serves as a mortuary chapel, maintaining its relevance to the local community and its value as an exemplar of the region's religious art and architecture.

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