Church and College of São Lourenço or Church and Convent of the Grilos or Major Seminary of the Cathedral of Porto

Category: Religious Architecture > Convent

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Centro Histórico

Location

Situated in the heart of Porto's Historic Centre, this remarkable architectural complex stands in an area of profound urban richness and density. Its imposing presence integrates into the city's secular fabric, bearing witness to centuries of history and architectural development. The location offers a perspective of the grandeur that characterizes the houses and religious buildings in this part of the city, inviting discovery of the unique environment that surrounds it.

Historical Journey and Identity

The history of this architectural complex is as rich as its various names suggest. Initially built in the 17th century, it served as the Church and College of São Lourenço, a prestigious Jesuit establishment in the city. After the expulsion of the Society of Jesus in the mid-18th century, the space was handed over to the Order of the Discalced Augustinians, then becoming known as the Church and Convent of Grilos, a name by which it is still affectionately remembered by the people of Porto today. Later, in the 19th century, it assumed its current function as the Major Seminary of Porto Cathedral, remaining since then a centre for formation and spirituality.

Architecture and Artistic Expression

The architecture of the complex reflects the transition and richness of styles that marked its construction and transformations over the centuries. Predominantly in Baroque style, the construction exhibits the solidity of granite, a characteristic material of the Porto region, combined with exuberant interior ornamentation. The church's façade, though sober in its impressiveness, contrasts with the richness of its interior.

Inside, the gilded carved altarpieces stand out, typical of Portuguese Joanine Baroque, filling the space with impressive brilliance and detail. The various artistic elements, from religious imagery to azulejo panels, contribute to an atmosphere of profound devotion and artistic beauty, revealing the apogee of sacred art of the era. The complex also includes the conventual dependencies, with emphasis on its cloisters, which invite contemplation and reveal the functional structure of a former college and convent, adapted over time to the needs of the seminary.

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

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