Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Setúbal > Barreiro > Palhais > Quinta do Torrão
The Church of Our Lady of Grace of Palhais is located in the locality of Palhais, in the municipality of Barreiro, district of Setúbal, more specifically in the area of Quinta do Torrão. This positioning gives it a setting that evokes the tranquillity and simplicity of the countryside, a contrast to the region's urban dynamic, yet still easily accessible for those visiting this area on the south bank of the Tagus River.
Its presence in this historic-rural location suggests a deep connection to the community and the region's past, offering a glimpse of a former landscape where religious architecture marked the centrality of social and spiritual life.
The history of the Church of Our Lady of Grace of Palhais dates back to the early 15th century, when an initial hermitage was likely built on the site, accompanying the development of the village of Palhais. Over the centuries, the temple underwent several interventions and adaptations, which shaped its current form, reflecting the successive eras and architectural styles.
Recognising its historical and heritage value, the Church of Our Lady of Grace was classified as a Public Interest Building by Decree in 1978, consolidating its status as a significant element of Portuguese built heritage and the Setúbal region.
The church's architecture features characteristics that link it to the Manueline period, particularly in its main façade. It is a simple-lined construction that stands out for its sobriety and the harmony of its proportions. The most prominent exterior feature is its stone portal, which displays a trefoil arch. This arch rests on slender columns, which are elegantly decorated with plant motifs, typical details of Manueline art that lend a distinctive touch to the ensemble.
The single-nave construction, with the addition of two side chapels whose ribbed vaults are a testament to the construction evolution of the 16th century, complements the uniqueness of this building in the panorama of local religious architecture.
Inside the church, the atmosphere invites contemplation and an appreciation of its antiquity. Particularly noteworthy are some tile panels that cover the walls, decorative elements of great artistic and historical value. These panels feature geometric patterns, namely the chequered pattern in shades of white and green, a style characteristic of the era of its construction and of the prevailing artistic trends.
The simplicity of the interior structure is enriched by these details, which not only decorate the space but also tell a part of the church's history and of past artistic techniques, providing an immersive experience in its cultural legacy.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.62623329568037,-9.049302379065956
Coordinates DMS: 38°37'34.4"N 09°02'57.5"W
Weather Palhais
On-duty Pharmacy Palhais
