Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Portalegre > Campo Maior > Campo Maior > Nossa Senhora da Expectação
Situated in the urban heart of Campo Maior, in the parish of Nossa Senhora da Expectação, the Matriz Church dominates Largo Dr. Regala. Its imposing main facade, facing southwest and accessed by a wide curved staircase, stands out in the town's landscape, marking a central and visible point for visitors. Two side churchyards, also preceded by staircases, complete the access to this prominent monument in the locality.
The construction of this parish church, dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Expectação, is a testament to the evolution of Campo Maior over more than a century, with works extending from the 16th to the 18th century. Begun around 1570 and completed in 1646, its construction replaced an old church located inside the castle, reflecting the growing importance of the town. The project is exemplary of Portuguese religious architecture, designated as 'plain style' (estilo 'chão') or stripped Baroque, and fits the model of 'hall churches' (igrejas-salão), large structures with three naves, characteristic of some of the country's most notable cathedrals, such as those in Leiria or Portalegre.
Upon entering the Matriz Church, we are met with an interior rich in artistic details. The ribbed vaults covering the naves and transept, supported by robust square-section pillars with marble-decorated bases, define the space. One of the highlights is the collection of nine Baroque altarpieces that adorn the altars, conceived with a remarkable use of black, white, and reddish marbles. Their elaboration and technical quality are often attributed to the 18th-century sculptor José Francisco de Abreu, a relevant name in the sacred art of the region. Of particular interest is also the Gothic baptismal font, located at the base of the western tower, which, due to its chalice shape and elaborate granite carving, suggests it is an older element, likely from the primitive parish church.
Integrated into the church complex, the Chapel of Bones is a space of profound symbolism. Built in 1766, this chapel constitutes a memorial dedicated to the tragic explosion of the powder magazine in the Keep of Campo Maior Castle, which occurred in 1732. Its presence is a vivid reminder of local history and the adversities faced by the community, providing a moment for reflection on the events that marked the town's memory and the resilience of its people.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.0128022,-7.0697927
Coordinates DMS: 39°00'46.1"N 07°04'11.3"W
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