Chãos Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Ferreira do Zêzere > Chãos > Casal de Santa Iria

Location

The Church of Chãos is located in the serene locality of Chãos, a tranquil place belonging to the municipality of Ferreira do Zêzere. More specifically, it is situated within the Casal de Santa Iria urbanization, at the heart of this community, offering a glimpse into the rural and historical life of the Santarém region.

Origin and Historical Significance

This religious temple has its roots in the 16th century, specifically in 1554. Its construction arose from the necessity felt by the inhabitants of Chãos themselves, who at the time faced obstacles in receiving sacraments and religious services from the parish of Areias, to which they were subject. Thus, the construction of the church marked an important step in local autonomy and community life.

Interior and Artistic Elements

Dedicated to Saint Sylvester, the Church of Chãos features a simple and welcoming architecture, characterized by a single nave. Its interior reveals a three-plane wooden ceiling and a chancel noteworthy for its barrel vault, adorned with paintings. In the sacred space, there is a set of stone images, dating from the 16th century, whose style reflects influences from Tomar and Coimbra sculpture. A detail worth noting is a brass plate, kept in the sacristy, which depicts in relief two figures dressed in 16th-century style carrying a large bunch of grapes.

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