Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Viana do Castelo > Santa Maria Maior e Monserrate
The Church of São Domingos is located in the heart of the city of Viana do Castelo, integrated into the area of Santa Maria Maior and Monserrate. Situated in Largo de São Domingos, its central position offers a point of reference and an inviting access for those exploring the urban and historical environment of the locality.
This remarkable temple, also known as the Church of Santa Cruz, has its roots in the 16th century. Its foundation, around 1560, was due to the initiative of D. Frei Bartolomeu dos Mártires, an influential Dominican friar who stood out for his active participation in the Council of Trent. The main construction of the church took place between 1566 and 1576, with the project attributed to the Dominican architect Frei Julião Romero. The church was part of the old Convent of Santa Cruz, playing a central role in the religious life of the time.
The Church of São Domingos exhibits a transitional architecture, where the origins of what would become known as the "Plain Style" are noticeable. The main facade, built in stonework, presents a configuration resembling an altarpiece. Inside, the Latin cross layout organizes the space, enriched by several intercommunicating side chapels. The interior beauty is marked by the presence of altarpieces that reflect different artistic periods, from Mannerist to Baroque and Rococo. Particularly noteworthy is the grand gilded woodcarving altarpiece dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, located in the north transept. This work, designed by André Soares and executed by José Álvares de Araújo, is a remarkable example of the Rocaille style, internationally recognized for its uniqueness. In addition to the woodcarving, the patterned tiles that adorn the main chapel, dated from the late 17th century, complement the temple's decorative richness.
Throughout the centuries, the Church of São Domingos has remained a spiritual and heritage center of Viana do Castelo, currently functioning as a parish church. The temple is the resting place of the tomb of D. Frei Bartolomeu dos Mártires, the figure who instigated its construction. Its historical and artistic importance was formally recognized with its classification as a National Monument in 1910. More recently, in 2020, its value was reinforced with its elevation to a minor basilica, attesting to its continuous relevance in the Portuguese cultural and religious landscape.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.6914614,-8.8341203
Coordinates DMS: 41°41'29.3"N 08°50'2.8"W
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