Church of São Martinho (Amarante)

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Amarante > Santão > Trigueira

Classification

The Church of São Martinho has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1934, highlighting its historical and cultural importance.

Construction Period

Construction dates back to the 13th century, at a time when Romanesque architecture dominated, associated with the style of the Monastery of Travanca, which was a relevant monastic center in the region.

Architecture

The church has a simple structure, with a rectangular nave and chancel, characteristic of the Portuguese Romanesque style. This style is known for its solidity and simplicity of form.

Galilee

In front of the main entrance, there is a galilee (porch), which is believed to have had a funerary function. This is a less common feature, which makes it an interesting element for the visitor.

Bell Tower

The side tower was originally part of the structure, but in more recent times, it was adapted into a bell tower, giving it a new function.

Main Portal

The main entrance portal is one of the most important elements of the church, with a simple tympanum and capitals decorated with vegetal motifs. These elements reflect the artistic work of the Romanesque period.

Sculptural Details

A curious detail is that the tympanum is supported by corbels with monstrous figures, which possibly represent sins, creating a symbolic connection with medieval beliefs.

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

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