Gondar Church or Old Church of Gondar

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Amarante > Gondar

Location

It is located in the parish of Gondar, in the municipality of Amarante.

Romanesque Style

The church follows the Romanesque architectural style, very common in Portugal during the Middle Ages.

Origin

It was initially built as part of a Benedictine monastery, founded in the 12th century in honor of Santa Maria.

Parochial Function

In the 14th century, the church began to function as a parish church, remaining so to this day.

Heritage Interest

Since 1978, the Old Church of Gondar has been classified as a Property of Public Interest, which reinforces its historical and cultural value.

Restoration

During the 20th century, the building was degraded and underwent conservation work to preserve its structure and history.

Founder

The monastery and church were founded by D. Mendo de Gundar, an important knight who came from Asturias to Portugal. He was lord of the Gondar region and played a relevant role in local history.

Historical Significance

The church is not just a place of worship, but also a landmark of local and national history, linked to the Benedictine presence and the development of the region over the centuries.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Velha_de_Gondar

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