Saint Peter's Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Chamusca > Chamusca > Chamusca e Pinheiro Grande

Location

The Church of São Pedro (Saint Peter) is located in the heart of the village of Chamusca, situated on Rua Direita de São Pedro, one of the central and most accessible areas of the town.

Style and Construction

It was built in the 17th century, reflecting the Portuguese Baroque style with traces of Mannerism still present.

History and Foundation

The church was commissioned in 1672 by two sisters, Branca Nunes Grandia and Leonor Correia Coutinho, to facilitate participation in religious services from their house, located opposite. The works were completed in 1681.

Legacy of the Founders

In 1691, the temple was bequeathed in a will to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia (Holy House of Mercy) of Chamusca, which still administers it today. The founding sisters are buried in the church's chancel.

Art and Decoration Elements

, The main altar is ornamented with gilded wood carvings, typical of the national style of the 17th century, and includes a painting of Our Lady of Expectation (Nossa Senhora do Ó).

, The walls of the chancel are covered with blue and white tiles from the 18th century, which illustrate scenes from the life of Saint Peter in rustic frames.

, The church has a lowered barrel vault ceiling, with polychrome paintings in the chancel, representing golden foliage.

, The pulpit, made of wood and stonework, has an elaborate structure with twisted balusters.

Interesting Details

, A 17th-century stone image of Saint Peter is in a niche above the main entrance.

, On the main altar, there are also images of Saint Peter, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Our Lady of Fatima.

, There is a stylistic connection with other churches in the region, such as the Chapel of São José (Azinhaga) and the Church of Misericórdia of Constância.