Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Santarém > Cartaxo > Pontével > Quinta da Varzea
Situated in the tranquility of Pontével, in the municipality of Cartaxo, the Church of Nossa Senhora da Purificação rises in the area known as Quinta da Várzea. It is located at the southern end of the village, dominating a spacious and inviting square. This space, paved with traditional cobblestones, is enhanced by the presence of large trees, wooden benches, and flowerbeds that invite a pause, creating a serene environment conducive to contemplation.
The history of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Purificação dates back to a primitive Christian temple, probably built in the 12th century. Although its foundations are medieval, the structure we contemplate today resulted from a profound reconstruction in the 17th century, followed by various restoration works. Its historical and artistic value was officially recognized in 1984, when it was classified as a Property of Public Interest, safeguarding its importance for future generations.
Upon crossing the main portal, visitors are enveloped by an environment of great artistic richness. The nave walls are adorned with remarkable 17th-century polychrome tilework, displaying complex patterns distinguished by their scale and detail. The interior also preserves elements from various periods, such as the ancient baptismal font, dating from the 16th century, and the majestic gilt woodcarving of the altarpieces, in the national Baroque style, with its Solomonic columns and elements recalling the 18th century.
In the chancel area, a fresco of the Patron Saint adorns the ceiling, and painted panels, attributed to the Master of Romeira, can be admired. Also noteworthy are the tombs of the 17th-century Commanders, including that of António Botto Pimentel, which attest to the church's connection to the Order of Malta, whose coat of arms is present on the nave's ceiling and in other elements. The stone pulpit and the side chapels, including the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, with its zenithal light and late-Baroque altarpiece, complete the tour of this significant collection.
Outside, the church's façade, though simple in lines, captures the eye, culminating in a classical gable with a straight lintel portal and an oculus. The bell tower, rising in two registers, houses three historic bells, each with its own inscription and casting date, marking the years 1793, 1810, and 1816. These bronze "voices" are witnesses to the passage of time and the life of the Pontével community, adding a sonic layer to the site's history.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.1479566,-8.8387322
Coordinates DMS: 39°08'52.6"N 08°50'19.4"W
Weather Pontével
On-duty Pharmacy Pontével
