Church of Our Lady of Mercy

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Santarém > Santarém > Marvila

Location

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade is located in the historic center of Santarém, in the parish of São Salvador, on the site of the former Leiria Gate.

Construction Period

The church began to be built in 1664, by order of King D. Afonso VI, as a thank you for the victory in the Battle of Ameixial.

Architectural Style

It combines Mannerist elements with Baroque influences. It is characterized by its exterior simplicity and artistic details in the interior.

Structure

The building has a Greek cross plan, with a prominent octagonal dome in the center. The façade includes the royal coat of arms and inscriptions alluding to the Restoration of Portugal's Independence.

Interior

, Chancel: Decoration with inlaid marbles and an 18th-century panel, The Virgin, the Child, and the Angels.

, Works of Art: 17th-century paintings, such as Deposition in the Tomb and Nossa Senhora da Piedade.

, Sculpture: A small clay image of Nossa Senhora da Piedade, dated 1611.

Historical Elements

, It incorporates remnants of the old Leiria Gate, one of the most important entrances to the old town wall.

, The church was built over the former Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe.

History and Use

, It belonged to the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Piedade until the extinction of religious orders in 1834.

, Classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1934.

Curiosity

The church has an organ built in 1795, considered a highlight piece.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_de_Nossa_Senhora_da_Piedade_(Santarém)

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