Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Portalegre > Castelo de Vide > Castelo de Vide > Quinta do Brejo
Situated in the Quinta do Brejo area, in Castelo de Vide, this church is built on a hillside, enjoying an elevated position. The location, isolated and tranquil, functions as a natural viewpoint, offering views over the surrounding landscape, including the Serra de São Paulo to the west.
The surrounding environment is peaceful and picturesque, providing a serene context for the religious building. A simple fountain, leaning against the south-facing side façade, complements the atmosphere of the place.
The origins of the Church of Santiago Maior date back to the early 16th century, with its construction taking place in the first half of that century. Its foundation is believed to be as early as the year 1500. Over the centuries, the church underwent different phases, including repair works registered in 1554.
The appearance we see today resulted from transformations and additions over time, with special emphasis on the interior decoration carried out in the 17th century. It was classified as a Monument of Public Interest in 2014.
The church features an architectural design that combines Baroque and "plain style" elements, characterized by its elongated plan with a single main nave. It has side chapels, a sacristy, and a square-based bell tower attached to the southwest facade.
The main facade is divided into three parts, with the central entrance marked by a straight lintel door and granite frame, ornamented with pinnacles and a scallop shell above. The bell tower, with two registers, rises alongside, standing out for its openings in the upper register. On the south facade, the access steps to a side door and the presence of an attached fountain are noticeable.
The interior of the Church of Santiago Maior is particularly notable for its decoration. The walls of the nave, the chancel, and the Chapel of Santo António are entirely covered with patterned tiles from the 17th century.
These tiles, which extend up to the ceiling, display a variety of geometric and vegetal motifs, predominantly in shades of yellow, blue, and white, creating an immersive and rich environment. The nave's worked wooden ceiling and the wooden choir-loft also add texture and detail to the space.
In addition to the tilework, the interior has other elements of interest. The side chapels, opened through granite arches, house altarpieces and other details, such as the baptismal font in the Chapel of Santo António or a tomb in the old Chapel of Santa Ana.
The main altar, elevated, features a carved retable with three registers, containing sculptures and paintings. A peculiar architectural aspect is the arrangement of the chancel, which is slightly misaligned in relation to the triumphal arch, a detail that may indicate structural alterations carried out in past eras.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.416753019809185, -7.458813391154824
Coordinates DMS: 39°25'0.3"N 07°27'31.7"W
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