Church of St. John

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Portalegre > Castelo de Vide > Castelo de Vide

Location

Situated in the heart of Castelo de Vide's historic center, in Praça D. Pedro V, the Church of S. João is located in a tranquil space, inviting a pause for contemplation. Its central position in the historic town allows for easy visits for those exploring the streets and alleys of the oldest area, featuring a small walled churchyard in front.

Origins and a Convent Past

The Church of S. João is one of the oldest religious buildings in Castelo de Vide, with its foundation dating back to the 15th century. It originated as a female convent, housing nuns from the Order of Malta, who came from Estremoz. This connection to the Order of Malta is a distinctive aspect in the temple's history, and although it now functions as a parish church, its conventual past remains present in its structure and details.

The Blend of Architectural Styles

The building reveals an interesting fusion of architectural styles, bearing witness to the various eras it has traversed. Although its original core dates back to Gothic influences, the main façade, facing south, exhibits a marked Baroque character, likely from the 18th century. Notable is the granite portal, with pilasters and an interrupted triangular pediment, topped by a large window with a curvilinear pediment and decorative elements such as flaming finials. The main entrance, elevated approximately five meters above street level, lends it a particular grandeur.

Points of Interest in the Interior

Upon entering the church, visitors discover a rectangular nave, covered by a trapezoidal wooden ceiling, and a deep chancel. Inside, vestiges of its Gothic past persist, such as a ribbed vault in the sacristy and a twin window. The chancel, rectangular and elevated, is crowned by a barrel vault. Worth noting is the Baroque masonry altarpiece, with its vibrant colors of blue, white, pink, and gold, complementing the side altars. A marble tombstone on the Epistle side marks the burial of Prior Francisco Carrilho de Carvalho, dated 1624, a detail that evokes the long history of individuals connected to this sacred space.

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