Church of Mercy

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > São Domingos

Location

The Church of Mercy is located on Rua das Flores, an emblematic street in the heart of Porto. This street, situated in the historic area of São Domingos, is characterized by its vibrant urban atmosphere and its proximity to important city axes, integrating fully into the daily life of Porto. Its central position offers a setting that reflects the architecture and dynamism of the city center.

Centuries of History and Reconstruction

The history of the Church of Mercy dates back to the 16th century, with its initial construction in 1559. Born from the vision of D. Manuel I, who in 1499 recommended the creation of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia in Porto, the church was blessed while still incomplete. The original building, in the Renaissance style with Gothic reminiscences, suffered a significant setback in 1621 when lightning destroyed its facade. Remaining in a state of abandonment for a long period, the church underwent a profound reconstruction in the 18th century, regaining its grandeur. Since 1977, the building and the Church of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Porto have been classified as a Property of Public Interest.

Nasoni's Design

The architectural identity of the church is largely due to the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. It was under his design that, from 1748 onwards, the church was rebuilt, revealing a Baroque style with clear Rococo influences. The facade of the Church of Mercy stands out for its scenic effect and ostentatious ornamentation. With three arcades on the lower floor, topped by windows with wavy outlines on the second floor, the front culminates in a large pediment displaying the emblem of Mercy and the royal crown. Elements such as the four braziers and a magnificent carved stone cross complete this imposing work, giving it a unique presence in the urban landscape.

The Richness of the Interior

Inside, the church features a single nave with a brick vault covered in stucco. The walls are lined with blue and white tiles, installed in 1866, which replaced the originals. The main chapel showcases a Baroque-Jesuit vault decorated in granite, and its walls, also worked in granite, are divided into two distinct friezes. Among the elements of artistic value is the gilded and detailed frieze of the chancel arch, of Neoclassical inspiration, which displays the royal arms and the image of Our Lady of Mercy. The side chapels and altars feature panels and images of significant value, enriching the heritage of the site. The choir, supported by an elegant arch designed by Nasoni, and the windbreak, with its striking Rococo carving, complement the decorative richness. Also noteworthy is the pipe organ in the Upper Choir, built in 1888, which features Iberian characteristics and a remarkable multiplicity of commands.

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