Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Setúbal > Grândola > Santa Margarida da Serra
Located in the small village of Santa Margarida da Serra, in the municipality of Grândola, this parish church stands in an Alentejo rural landscape, on a hillside. Its setting, isolated and integrated into an area of traditional architecture, gives it an atmosphere of tranquility and a strong connection to the territory of the Serra de Grândola.
The Church of Santa Margarida da Serra presents a religious architecture that reflects the national Mannerist style, known as "estilo chão" (plain style), characterized by its simplicity, sobriety, and clarity of lines. The building's volumes are massive and white, with the lime wash that annually covers the facades emphasizing the Alentejo identity of the complex. Its main facade, facing west, stands out with a galilee covered by a ribbed vault, an element that introduces a distinctive note to its simple composition. The bell tower, with its independent structure, harmoniously articulates with the main body of the temple.
Inside, the unified space maintains the exterior austerity. The nave houses several shallow chapels, framed by full arches resting on Tuscan pilasters, and a pulpit with painted carving. The chancel is highlighted by a reticular high altar, also in painted carving, where the image of Saint Margaret stands out, flanked by niches with religious statuary, enriching the integrated heritage of this remarkable monument.
The history of the Church of Santa Margarida da Serra probably dates back to the last quarter of the 15th century, when a primitive hermitage existed. Although it suffered damage and interventions over the centuries (notably a major restructuring in the mid-17th century) its current form preserves a valuable testimony to the architectural and religious transformations of the region. The temple, once a hermitage, became a parish church, and is today one of the most significant buildings in the area.
The recognition of its patrimonial value culminated in its classification as a Monument of Public Interest in 2019, a status that also covers its integrated movable collection. This includes a set of paintings, on canvas and wood, which have been the subject of research projects, underlining the importance of their conservation and study for understanding regional religious art and valuing its cultural legacy.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.1191223,-8.5995245
Coordinates DMS: 38°07'8.8"N 08°35'58.3"W
Weather Santa Margarida da Serra
On-duty Pharmacy Santa Margarida da Serra
