Grijó Monastery or Monastery of Saint Saviour of Grijó

Category: Religious Architecture > Monastery

District: Porto > Vila Nova de Gaia > Grijó > Mosteiro de São Salvador de Grijó

Location

The Grijó Monastery, also known as the Monastery of São Salvador de Grijó, is located in the parish of Grijó e Sermonde, in the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia, in the district of Porto.

Classification

This monument has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1938. The tomb of D. Rodrigo Sanches, which is located inside, has been a National Monument since 1910.

History

Founded in 922 by two clerics, Guterre and Ausindo Soares, the monastery adopted the rule of the Order of Saint Augustine in 938. In 1112, it was transferred to its current location, and the new church was consecrated in 1235. After a period of abandonment, in 1566, the monks returned to Grijó and initiated reforms.

Architecture

The monastery features a longitudinal church with a single nave. The main facade has three registers, with an arcade on the first, a large window on the second, and a triangular pediment at the top. The decorated pilasters and square windows give the building a Mannerist style.

Interior

The nave is covered by a decorated vault and has six side chapels. The chancel has a carved altarpiece dating from 1737, which includes a painting of the Transfiguration of Christ.

Cloister

The cloister is square, with two registers of Ionic and Corinthian orders, and has polychrome tiles with figures of apostles. In the center, there is a fountain in the Flemish style.

Tomb of D. Rodrigo Sanches

Located in the north wing of the cloister, this tomb is a masterpiece of the 13th century, being one of the oldest examples of funerary monuments in Portugal. In 2013, it was moved to the old Chapter Room, where it can be better appreciated.

Visits

The Grijó Monastery is a place of cultural and historical interest, ideal for visitors who want to learn more about the religious history of Portugal and admire Mannerist architecture.

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

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