Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Santarém > Ferreira do Zêzere > Beco > Brasileira
The Main Church of Santo Aleixo do Beco was built in the 16th century and is dedicated to Saint Alexius. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, it underwent significant alterations that gave it varied architectural characteristics.
Located in the center of the village of Beco, in the municipality of Ferreira do Zêzere, the church is easily accessible. The surrounding space includes a large churchyard, where religious festivals take place, such as the Santo Aleixo fair in July and the festival in honor of Our Lady of Conception in August.
The church presents an eclectic style, with Gothic and Renaissance elements. The interior consists of three naves separated by Tuscan columns and covered by wooden ceilings. The main facade, with Mannerist features, includes a bell tower.
Highlights include the gilded altarpiece of the chancel, dating from the 18th century, and the decorative tiles that illustrate biblical scenes. Inside, there are several pieces of sacred art, such as stone sculptures from the 16th and 17th centuries, a wooden bas-relief with scenes from Calvary, and the original 16th-century baptismal font.
The church has been classified as a property of public interest since 1943, representing an important historical and religious landmark in the region.
Several interventions have been carried out to preserve the building and its decorative elements, ensuring an enriching experience for visitors.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.770960092892004,-8.297790418886823
Coordinates DMS: 39°46'15.5"N 08°17'52.0"W