Mercy of Viana do Castelo

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Centro Histórico

Location

Located in the heart of Viana do Castelo's Historic Centre, the Misericórdia stands in a square that, once open, developed alongside the city's ancient walls. Its presence marks one of the most emblematic and bustling spaces in the locality, facilitating access for those exploring Viana do Castelo's central pedestrian zone.

Origin and Pioneering Architecture

The history of the Misericórdia of Viana do Castelo dates back to the 16th century, with the founding of its confraternity in 1520. The built complex began to take shape with the construction of the so-called Casa das Varandas (House of Balconies) in 1589, a remarkable architectural example. This unique building stands out for its Renaissance and Mannerist influences, with hints of Italian and Flemish inspiration, and reflects the institution's importance at the time, not only in the religious field but also in the management of hospital and social assistance functions.

Baroque Expression in the Interior

While the exterior of the Misericórdia Church of Viana do Castelo presents a harmonious simplicity, its interior reveals an explosion of decorative richness, making it one of the most notable examples of Baroque art in Portugal. After the remodelling began in 1716, under the direction of military engineer Manuel Pinto de Vilalobos, the church transformed into a true "museum" of ornamentation. Attention is immediately drawn to the gilded woodcarving altarpieces, masterpieces by Ambrósio Coelho, which adorn the altars in national Baroque style, creating a visual effect of symmetry and grandeur.

Tile Panels and Frescoes

The church walls tell stories through their magnificent tile panels, attributed to Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes. These ceramic coverings depict the Fourteen Works of Mercy, illustrated by biblical passages, and are complemented by scenes from the life of Jesus and Mary near the main altar. In the central arch, an imposing image of Our Lady of Mercy seems to welcome all visitors to the space. Complementing this visual tapestry, the vaulted ceiling, painted by Manuel Gomes in the "grotesque" style, displays frescoes with medallions illustrating the Holy Trinity, the Assumption of Our Lady, and the Flight into Egypt, creating a symphony of color and form that fills the upper space of the nave.

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