Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Vila Real > Valpaços > Valpaços > Santa Valha
The Parish Church of Santa Valha is located in the heart of the peaceful village of Santa Valha, in the municipality of Valpaços. It stands in a rural area, in the center of the village, slightly below a dirt square that extends in front of it, providing an atmosphere of tranquility.
The building is situated in a welcoming churchyard, dotted with trees, and is delimited by a white wall with stone coping, accessible by a central iron gate. Right next to the outer wall, on a two-step plinth, there is a simple granite cross, dated 1697, inviting a moment of serene contemplation.
The history of the current Parish Church of Santa Valha dates back to the 17th century, its foundation having been promoted in 1657 by Abbot Nuno Álvares, then the local parish priest. However, the religious presence on this site is even older, with indications of a primitive medieval church that may have existed nearby, atop an ancient castro.
On the main facade of the temple, it is possible to observe coats of arms that attest to its antiquity, one of which bears the inscription 1655, underscoring the deep roots of this place of worship in the community of Santa Valha.
The Parish Church of Santa Valha features characteristic religious architecture, with a linear plan, comprising a single nave and a chancel, to which a side chapel is attached on the left side. The side facades are plastered and painted white, displaying an elegant simplicity.
The main facade, entirely in exposed granite of regular ashlar with white joints, stands out for its imposing presence. It is framed by Tuscan pilasters at the corners, crowned by pyramidal pinnacles. At the top, a gable is cut by a double bell-gable with perfect round arches, topped by a pediment ornamented with volutes and a Latin cross in stonework, flanked by pinnacles. The entrance portal has a straight lintel, above which the Latin inscription "PAUPERES SEMPRE HABETE VOBISCUM" can be read. Above, a circular oculus, now filled by a clock, adds a distinctive touch.
Upon entering the church, visitors discover a space of devotion and art. The interior of the temple houses a valuable collection of oil paintings on wood, also dating from the 17th century. These works of art represent one of the most significant aspects of the church's heritage, deserving special attention for their beauty and historical-cultural significance, enriching the experience of those who visit this place.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.6833271,-7.2711947
Coordinates DMS: 41°40'60.0"N 07°16'16.3"W
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