Church of the Convent of Saint Francis

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Tomar > Tomar > São João Baptista e Santa Maria dos Olivais

Location

The Church of the Convent of São Francisco is located in Tomar, an integral part of the urban fabric of the city, in the area known as São João Baptista and Santa Maria dos Olivais. Its position, next to one of the main avenues, allows direct access and easy integration into the discovery route of the locality, revealing itself as a point of interest well integrated into the cityscape.

A 17th Century Architectural Ensemble

This temple is a central element of a vast complex built in the 17th century, exhibiting notable architecture in the Mannerist style. The building reflects the current known as "Arquitetura Chã" (Plain Architecture), characterized by its sobriety, monumentality, and the almost complete absence of excessive ornamentation. The facade, in particular, stands out for its portal and pediment, which are representative of the Mannerist aesthetic of the time.

The Interior and Its Highlights

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a high nave, covered by an elegant barrel vault. The interior space houses religious art pieces of particular interest. Among them are sculptures of the Calvary, considered rare, and four distinct representations of the Virgin Mary. In one of the side chapels, on the Gospel side, it is possible to observe the image of Santa Iria, a figure with particular symbolism and connection to local history.

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