Church of Mercy of Montijo

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Setúbal > Montijo > Montijo > Aldeia Velha

Location

Located in the Aldeia Velha area, in the heart of Montijo, this church occupies a central square where several streets converge. Its striking presence is integrated into the urban fabric of the locality, reflecting the history and community life of the area, easily accessible for those exploring the city.

History and Foundation

The history of the Church of Misericórdia of Montijo dates back to the 16th century, with its construction authorized by a royal charter from D. Sebastião in 1571. Built on land donated in 1569 by D. Nuno Álvares Pereira, the first Provider of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Montijo, and his wife, D. Isabel de Almeida, this church represents an important landmark in the institution's identity. The influence of its founders is such that D. Nuno Álvares Pereira's tomb is located next to the main altar, testifying to the deep historical roots of the place. Its completion was made possible by additional donations in the early 17th century.

Architecture and Exterior

Classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1993, the Church of Misericórdia of Montijo features a Mannerist architectural style, characteristic of the 16th and 17th centuries. Its main facade, topped by a triangular gable, stands out for its rectangular portal, flanked by Tuscan pilasters and surmounted by a triangular pediment. Interestingly, it does not have a large bell tower on the main facade, only a small belfry above the sacristy, visible at the junction between the nave and the chancel. Above one of its windows, a polychrome register dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament, dated 1677, adds a notable detail to the building's exterior.

Interior and Sacred Art

Upon entering the church, one discovers a single nave connected to the chancel by a triumphal arch. The walls of the subchoir and nave are covered with 17th-century 'carpet' pattern tiles, in shades of blue, white, and yellow, creating a visually rich environment. The vaults, both of the nave and the chancel, are stuccoed; the nave's vault displays the national coat of arms, while the chancel's features emblems of Christ's Passion. The interior also includes a wooden choir loft, a pulpit attached to the north wall, and a side chapel dedicated to the Lord of the Steps. Various altarpieces adorn the main altar and the collateral altars, complemented by two long benches intended for the brotherhood, leaning against the nave walls.

Legacy and Cultural Space

The long history of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Montijo, spanning over 450 years, is intrinsically linked to this church. In an annex to the religious building, in the former 'casa do despacho' (dispatch house), a museum space was created. This museum, inaugurated in 1957, houses various pieces from the institution's collection, carefully restored, offering a perspective on the heritage and secular mission of the Misericórdia.

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