Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Santarém > Chamusca > Chamusca > Chamusca e Pinheiro Grande
In the heart of the village of Chamusca, in the parish of Chamusca e Pinheiro Grande, stands the Mother Church, a central landmark in the locality. Its position in the historic core of the village is evident, flanked by old buildings dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, which contributes to the traditional atmosphere of the place.
The Mother Church of Chamusca, dedicated to Saint Blaise, has its roots in the foundation of the village, being its oldest and most significant temple. Its initial construction dates back to 1510, driven by D. João da Silva, the second lord proprietor of Chamusca. Although completed and already in use by 1518, the church underwent successive transformations and expansions throughout the centuries. One of the most significant interventions occurred in 1731, under the patronage of Queen D. Maria Ana of Austria, resulting in the construction of its imposing exterior walls, the creation of the churchyard, and the erection of the two towers, the bell tower and the clock tower. These works, which spanned a decade, shaped much of its current configuration. The building's history also reveals moments of risk, such as the demolition proposal in the early 20th century, motivated by the intention to expand the market operating in front of it. Although modifications have been constant, fortunately, some of its most valuable features have been preserved over time.
The Mother Church of Chamusca reveals an architectural and artistic ensemble that bears witness to its long history. From the period of its initial construction, its Manueline portal stands out, with its characteristic round arch and an elaborate stone intertwining resting on two shafts. Above this portal, the coat of arms with the lion, symbol of the Silva family, is visible. The current main door, dated 1806, is enriched by the wrought iron gates, a work by Cipriano Imaginário from 1929.
Inside, in a single nave, the three-plane wooden ceiling stands out. The main chapel, a central element, is covered by a barrel vault ornamented with floral paintings and clad in 17th-century tiles. Here, on the pavement, lies the gravestone of D. João da Silva and his wife. Surrounding the main altar, two collateral altars, both in 18th-century gilded carving, highlight the richness of the space. The temple also houses four side chapels, dedicated to different invocations. Among the pieces of sacred art, the image of Saint Blaise, the patron saint, a 17th-century polychrome wooden sculpture, and that of Saint Sebastian, in stone, from the early 16th century, deserve special attention. The panel paintings present on the collateral altars, such as "The Baptism" and "The Vision of Saint Peter", complement the artistic collection of the place.
The Mother Church of Chamusca played a central role in the social and religious life of the community, serving as headquarters for various brotherhoods and congregations. Notable for their importance are the Confraternity of the Souls in Purgatory, founded in 1629, and the Brotherhood of the Most Holy Sacrament, which existed between 1668 and 1906. These associations were not limited to worship; they actively promoted acts of benevolence and solidarity, offering support to the sick, prisoners, and needy individuals in the parish through visits and aid. Their sustenance came from the contributions of their own members and from donations received. In addition to these, the church hosted other confraternities throughout the centuries, such as those of Saint Blaise, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Sebastian, and Our Lady of the Rosary, underscoring its enduring role as a hub of community life and mutual support.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.3569523,-8.4821787
Coordinates DMS: 39°21'25.0"N 08°28'55.8"W
Weather Chamusca
On-duty Pharmacy Chamusca
