Cross of Azurara

Category: Religious Architecture > Stone Cross

District: Porto > Vila do Conde > Azurara > Zona do Cruzeiro

Location

The Azurara Cross is located in the churchyard of the Azurara Mother Church, in Vila do Conde. It is one of the most interesting monuments in the parish.

Structure

The cross stands on a base of four square steps. The column is cylindrical, with an elegant design and a slight widening at the base.

Capital and Cross

The capital features a cubic block decorated with heraldic symbols. On top of the capital, a Latin cross with wide arms, with floral details, represents the local religiosity.

Religious Images

On the faces of the cross are sculpted figures of Christ and the Virgin Mary, both in static poses, reflecting the art of the time.

Symbols of Santiago

The scallops carved into the capital refer to Santiago de Compostela. The Mother Church was built in 1502, when King D. Manuel passed through the village on his way to Santiago.

Historical Significance

The armillary sphere on the capital is a symbol of King D. Manuel, highlighting his support for the construction of the church and the cross.

Cultural Heritage

The cross and the church were built together, reflecting the Manueline style characteristic of the era. It is a place of great historical and cultural value for the region.

Sources: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cruzeiro_de_Azurara_-_Portugal_(36704276716).jpg

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