Church of Mercy

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Póvoa de Varzim > Póvoa de Varzim > Nova Sintra

Location

The Church of Misericórdia is located in Póvoa de Varzim, situated in the area known as Nova Sintra. This area, with its urban character, welcomes visitors into an environment that combines the serenity of a place of worship with the vibrancy of the city.

A Historical Legacy

The history of the Church of Misericórdia is deeply linked to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Póvoa de Varzim. The site that now hosts this temple boasts a rich past, where various religious structures have succeeded one another throughout the centuries. In the 16th century, there was a small chapel here dedicated to Saint James. Later, this chapel was expanded to serve as the mother church of Póvoa de Varzim, a role it fulfilled until the mid-18th century, when the mother church was transferred to a new building. From that point on, the old temple and its churchyard, which served as a cemetery, became the property of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia.

In the early 20th century, the Administrative Board of the Santa Casa decided to erect the church that stands today. For its construction, in 1909, it was notable that materials from the temples that previously occupied this very site were repurposed, thus incorporating stones with a long history in the memory of Póvoa de Varzim.

Architectural Features

The current Church of Misericórdia, consecrated in 1914, is an example of the eclectic architecture that characterized its construction period. Although the initial project was signed by architect Adães Bermudes, the final version was overseen by the Porto-based architect Peres Guimarães.

The facade reveals a fusion of styles, with neoclassical influences predominating. An elegant colonnade is visible at the portico, evoking the sobriety of Doric temples. Above, the attic features a more complex composition, with an interrupted pediment framing an elaborate cartouche, where the image of Our Lady of Misericórdia and the symbols of Portugal are distinguished, culminating in a rectilinear pediment and decorative elements at the top.

Inside, the dark carved altars, with golden details, also reflect the neoclassical and revivalist taste of the period. The church also houses religious images, some of which come from the old church, enriching the artistic heritage of the space.

A Space of Devotion and Legacy

Since its construction, the Church of Misericórdia has been a fundamental pillar in the activities of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia, serving as a central place for worship and religious life in the community. Its presence in Póvoa de Varzim perpetuates a legacy of assistance and spirituality that dates back centuries, with the celebration of ceremonies and the maintenance of traditions that are an integral part of the local identity. It is a space that invites reflection and contemplation, bearing witness to the faith and history of Póvoa de Varzim.

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