Church of Saint Marina

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Setúbal > Grândola > Melides > Saibreira

Location

The Church of Santa Marinha is located in the Saibreira urbanisation, in Melides, Grândola municipality. It is situated west of the most developed area of the locality, flanked by the cemetery and with easy access from National Road 261. Its original position, near the ancient Barra de Melides (Melides Bar), then navigable by small boats, was decisive for the establishment of the first community and for the construction of the temple itself.

Origins and the Sea

This place of worship, considered the first parish church of Melides, has a deep connection with the early history of the settlement. Its construction dates back to the early years of the 16th century, according to records from the Order of Santiago, which held jurisdiction over these lands. The choice of Santa Marinha as patron saint reflects the crucial importance that the sea, the bar, and fishing held for the first inhabitants of Melides, who were primarily engaged in maritime activities.

From the Old Parish Church to the Current Ruins

Over time, the silting of Barra de Melides and the emergence of public health problems in the surrounding wetlands led the community to seek a new location to settle, on a healthier hillside. This change resulted in the construction of a new temple in the 17th century, the Chapel of São Pedro, which would later become the parish church. The Church of Santa Marinha, while maintaining its devotion, was gradually relegated to the status of an annexed church or hermitage and, subsequently, left to abandonment. In the 19th century, after significant damage, possibly from the 1858 earthquake, its degradation accelerated. In the early 20th century, the roof collapsed, and valuable elements such as the bell and the Manueline baptismal font were removed or lost.

A Testament to Melides' Past

Today, the ruins of the Church of Santa Marinha represent a historical and cultural landmark of great value. Despite their current state, they continue to be an eloquent testament to the past of the Melides community and its roots. It is still possible to recognise the structure of what was once a centre of faith and community life. For some years, the tradition of blessing cattle, associated with the feast of Saint Louis, was maintained in its vicinity, highlighting its persistent cultural relevance.

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