Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Porto > Póvoa de Varzim > Póvoa de Varzim > Nova Sintra
Known as the Main Church or Parish Church of Our Lady of the Conception, it is a landmark of Baroque architecture in the city of Póvoa de Varzim, with recognized historical and cultural importance.
The church was classified as a Property of Public Interest in 1977, standing out as one of the most remarkable buildings in the region.
In the 18th century, Póvoa de Varzim was a growing fishing village, and the old church of the city could no longer support the expanding population. In 1736, King D. João V allowed the construction of a new temple, supported by a small portion of local taxes and contributions from the inhabitants.
The new church was erected near the old Town Hall, with the first stone laid in 1743 and partially inaugurated in 1757.
The facade is an elegant example of 18th-century Baroque architecture, with a rocaille-style portal and a royal coat of arms at the top, as well as a niche with an image of the Virgin. In celebration of the 250th anniversary of its inauguration, new bronze doors created by the sculptor Rui Anahory were installed.
The interior stands out for its spaciousness and the single nave covered by a barrel vault. It is decorated with nine altars in gilded wood carvings, characteristic of the Joãoine Baroque style, and a highly detailed Rococo main altar with six sculpted columns.
In the church's collection, there is a green chasuble from the 16th century with silk embroidery and an image of Our Lady of the Journey from the 17th century. In the sacristy, one can observe a piece of furniture engraved with Póvoa siglas, symbolic marks of the local fishermen.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Matriz_da_Póvoa_de_Varzim
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.380843508193706,-8.756875977569921
Coordinates DMS: 41°22'51.0"N 08°45'24.8"W
Weather Póvoa de Varzim
On-duty Pharmacy Póvoa de Varzim
