Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Santarém > Tomar > Asseiceira
Located in the small town of Asseiceira, in the municipality of Tomar, the Parish Church of Our Lady of Purification stands as a peaceful landmark in the heart of the village.
Its presence invites an immersion into the characteristic rural atmosphere of central Portugal, offering a moment to pause and observe local life and the surrounding landscape.
The Church of Asseiceira is a testament to local history and religious life. Its origins date back to the 17th century, the period in which the temple we see today was built.
However, its royal patronage predates this, with records from 1574 placing it within the then Diocese of Leiria, to which the territory of Asseiceira and the municipality of Tomar had belonged since the diocese's creation in 1545.
This connection to royal patronage and the historic diocese gives it particular relevance, highlighting its ecclesiastical and heritage role over the centuries. The building is recognized as having heritage value, a quality that endures and can be appreciated by those seeking traces of history and faith in Portuguese lands.
One of the most striking and distinctive features of the Church of Asseiceira lies in its interior. The nave is entirely covered with azulejo panels, a remarkable feature in the temple's architecture.
These tiles feature a pattern with a predominance of blue and yellow, creating a visually rich and unique environment. The abundant use of this traditional Portuguese decorative element not only beautifies the space but also gives the church a serene and inviting atmosphere, distinctive in its simplicity and beauty.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.5240911,-8.4033621
Coordinates DMS: 39°31'26.7"N 08°24'12.1"W