Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Setúbal > Setúbal > Setúbal > Sé
The Church of Santa Maria da Graça, also known as Setúbal Cathedral, stands in the historic area of the city, in the district known as Sé. Its location reflects its central role throughout the centuries, marking what was the core of Setúbal's medieval town. It is located in an area where the city's history unfolds at every turn, with streets that bear witness to its development.
The history of the Church of Santa Maria da Graça dates back to the 13th century, when it was founded, serving as the focal point around which the primitive medieval town of Setúbal developed. The building seen today is, to a large extent, the result of a profound reconstruction carried out in the second half of the 16th century. This intervention imbued it with new life and architectural features that distinguish it, reflecting the artistic ideals of the period. Its status as a Public Interest Property, since 1955, underscores its patrimonial and historical relevance.
The church's current appearance, with its design attributed to António Rodrigues, features a remarkable Mannerist façade. Two robust towers flank the entrance portal, giving it an imposing presence in the urban landscape. Inside, visitors find a rich artistic ensemble. Highlights include the Tuscan order columns, some adorned with frescoes dating from the late 18th century, which reveal the delicacy of painting from that period.
The gilded woodwork, particularly evident in the Main Chapel, is an expressive work of the National Style, culminating in the works of master José Rodrigues Ramalho. Complementing this setting are the tiles, which also date from the late 18th century, enriching the space with their patterns and colors and inviting a more detailed observation.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.5244132,-8.888171
Coordinates DMS: 38°31'27.9"N 08°53'17.4"W