Church of Saint Mary of the Visitation or Mother Church of Castro Laboreiro

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viana do Castelo > Melgaço > Castro Laboreiro > Castro Laboreiro e Lamas de Mouro

Location

It is located in the village of Castro Laboreiro, municipality of Melgaço, district of Viana do Castelo.

Classification

Considered a Property of Public Interest since 1993.

Origin and History

, Original construction from the 9th century, with elements from various periods.

, First known reference dates from 1141.

, Reforms throughout the centuries, including Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles.

, Historical connection to the House of Braganza and the Order of Christ.

, Since 1977, it belongs to the Diocese of Viana do Castelo.

Exterior Architecture

, Simple granite facade, remodeled in the 18th century.

, Straight-framed portal with an oculus and a round-arched window.

, Bell tower with bells from different eras.

, Gothic buttresses and Latin cross at the top.

, Sundial on the roof.

Interior of the Church

, Single nave with massive walls and reinforcing arches.

, Chancel built in 1755, with a neoclassical altarpiece.

, 12th-century baptismal font in Romanesque style.

, Simple choir.

Curiosity

It is located in an elevated churchyard, accessible by three steps, creating a historical and picturesque environment.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Matriz_de_Castro_Laboreiro

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