Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Santarém > Mação > Envendos
Situated in the picturesque village of Envendos, which is part of the municipality of Mação, the Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça rises harmoniously within the urban landscape. It is surrounded by squares formed at the confluence of several streets, flanked by two to three-story buildings that shape its environment. Next to one of its side facades, a landscaped area invites rest, where a stone bench wraps around part of the church, offering a tranquil spot to appreciate its imposing presence.
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça is a notable example of the architectural transition between late Gothic and Mannerism, dating back to constructions begun in the 16th century and completed in 1597, as indicated on the tympanum of its portal. Its grandeur is evident in the dimensions of the building, which features three spacious naves. The main facade stands out, marked by an angular gable, and a prominent bell tower, whose Gothic elements in its finial, such as the pentagonal merlons and the prismatic spire, suggest an even older origin, possibly functioning as a watchtower in ancient times.
Upon entering, visitors are enveloped by an atmosphere of artistic richness. The three naves, divided by robust Tuscan columns supporting perfect arches, are covered by elegant wooden ceilings. The chancel is highlighted by a barrel vault. Inside, you will find gilded National Style altarpieces, present in the chancel and in the collateral and lateral altars. A particularly interesting aspect is that some of these altarpieces come from the old and now vanished Church of Santiago de Abrantes, giving them additional history. The walls, especially in the altar area, are covered with polychrome patterned tiles, dating from the 17th century, framing small devotional paintings with scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin. Do not miss the panel depicting the Tree of Jesse above the collateral altar of the Epistle, and a panel dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, dated 1644, above one of the lateral altars. In the choir-loft, an 18th-century chamber organ, originating from Santarém, contributes to the unique atmosphere of the space.
The cultural and historical importance of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça is formally recognized, having been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1978. This status underlines its heritage value and the need for its preservation for future generations. Over the centuries, the building has undergone various interventions that adapted and enriched its structure, including reconstruction works after a fire in 1825 and restorations of artistic elements that can be appreciated today. Its solidity is ensured by stone masonry walls, complemented by granite and limestone stonework elements, with ceramic tile roofs that testify to its longevity.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.5685787,-7.8754396
Coordinates DMS: 39°34'6.9"N 07°52'31.6"W
Weather Envendos
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