Church of Saint Michael of Vilarinho

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Santo Tirso > Vilarinho > Mosteiro

Ancient History

This ancient monastery, also known as the Church of São Miguel de Vilarinho, has roots dating back to the 11th century. Construction began in 1070 and the space was completed in 1074, becoming inhabited by a group of 10 canons. It is believed that the foundation of the monastery served to bury nobles of the Fafes family.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

In 1953, the church was classified as a Property of Public Interest, recognizing its cultural and architectural value.

Origin and Religious Influence

The monastery belonged to the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine and, over the centuries, played a central role in the life of the Vilarinho community. Historical documents from the 13th and 14th centuries, such as the "Censual do Cabido da Sé do Porto" from 1120, refer to its religious and social importance.

Changes and Decay

From the 15th century onwards, the monastery's assets began to be administered by commendatory abbots, and part of its income was destined for the Monastery of Landim and previously for that of Roriz. At the beginning of the 18th century, the monastery was practically unoccupied, and in 1834, with the extinction of religious orders, the monastery's properties were sold to private individuals.

Romanesque Architecture

The church, in Romanesque style and possibly from the 12th century, has been altered over the years, but retains the original charm of this medieval style. In the old cloister, of which only a few vestiges remain today, stands out an arch with a tomb dated from the 13th or 14th centuries, where Prior D. João Gonçalves is buried.

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

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