Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Portalegre > Monforte > Vaiamonte
The Church of Santo António is located in the tranquil village of Vaiamonte, part of the municipality of Monforte, in the district of Portalegre. Erected in Largo Mariano Moreira Costa Pinto, its presence contributes to the identity and serene atmosphere of the village center, serving as a landmark for visitors.
The current appearance of the Church of Santo António reflects the major interventions carried out in the 18th century, giving it an aesthetic characteristic of that period. The main facade, oriented to the west, displays a balanced composition. Standing out is the bell tower, which rises above the complex and is topped by a pyramidal spire, an element that harmoniously integrates into the region's architectural landscape.
On the south-facing side facade, a secondary door made of marble stonework can be observed, elegantly molded and topped by a window. On this same side of the building, a chapel projects from the main body, enriched by a coat of arms and a tombstone with inscriptions, details that invite closer observation.
Upon crossing the doors of the Church of Santo António, visitors are welcomed into a space for contemplation. Inside, the choir loft, the baptismal font, and a pulpit with its stone basin and iron guard stand out. The space also houses two collateral chapels, one dedicated to Saint Michael, featuring a marble altar, and another consecrated to the Blessed Sacrament.
A detail of interest on the church floor is the existence of a tomb with a coat of arms, which evokes the history and families that, over the centuries, were connected to this temple. A visible inscription on this tomb refers to the year 1764, offering a glimpse into the past.
Despite its current appearance largely dating back to the 18th century, the history of the Church of Santo António is older. Records indicate that the primitive temple was likely built between the 16th and 17th centuries. Subsequent renovations transformed the building, giving it the 18th-century lines we observe today, but its long existence reflects the continuity of worship and the church's importance in the life of the Vaiamonte community throughout the centuries.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.0925036,-7.5118042
Coordinates DMS: 39°05'33.0"N 07°30'42.5"W
Weather Vaiamonte
On-duty Pharmacy Vaiamonte
