Parish Church of Saint Margaret of Coutada

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Constância > Constância > Santa Margarida da Coutada

Location and Environment

The Parish Church of Santa Margarida da Coutada is situated in the peaceful locality of Santa Margarida da Coutada, within the municipality of Constância. The temple is fronted by an inviting churchyard, an open space that offers an atmosphere of peace. In this place, two majestic ash trees stand out, one of which is surely over a century old, contributing to the serene and picturesque atmosphere of the surroundings.

A Journey Through Time

This religious temple dates back to the late 17th century, a period that left its visible mark on the structure itself. The main façade bears the date of 1678 carved in stone, a direct testament to its construction period. Later, in the mid-18th century, around 1747, a sundial was added to the right corner, an interesting piece likely authored by the Italian João António de Pádua.

Throughout the 19th century, the church benefited from significant interventions that enriched its details. In the second half of the century, an exquisitely carved stone cross was placed above the façade's large window, dated 1872. Inside, the pulpit, whose base displays the date of 1878, was also restored and painted. The church's recent history also includes restoration work carried out in 1987, following a fire.

Artistic Treasures

Despite past vicissitudes leading to the removal of some of its most valuable images for their protection, the Parish Church of Santa Margarida da Coutada still holds a remarkable example of its artistic heritage. Inside, there is the imposing image of the Holy Trinity, a stone sculpture dating from the 16th century. This piece stands out for its considerable size and undeniable artistic value, being one of the most significant elements of sacred art remaining in the church.

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