Church of Mondrões or Church of Saint James

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Mondrões > Gulpilhares

Location

The Church of Mondrões, also known as the Church of Saint James, is located in the village of Mondrões, in the municipality of Vila Real. It is situated in a paved square, in a serene rural setting, surrounded by agricultural fields. Its churchyard is adjacent to paths that wind through this small cluster of houses, offering close contact with the region's natural landscape.

A History of Centuries

The history of the Church of Saint James probably dates back to the 16th century, benefiting, moreover, from the royal charter granted by King Manuel to Penaguião in 1519. Although its origins are ancient, the current building is the result of a significant renovation carried out in 1744 on the primitive structure, and its classification as a Property of Public Interest since 1982 attests to its patrimonial and historical value. Throughout the centuries, it was a central point for various local brotherhoods and confraternities, such as those of the Souls, Our Lady of the Rosary, or Saint James himself, which underscores its importance to the community.

The Façade and Its Symbols

The church's main façade is one of its most captivating elements, showcasing remarkable work in Baroque style. It is richly ornamented, with a profusion of decorative and iconographic elements. At the central axis, a straight lintel portal stands out, above which a false pediment frames an oval cartouche with vegetal motifs. Within it, the image of Saint James on horseback overthrowing a Moor stands out, a strong and expressive symbol of the patron saint. The lateral areas of the façade feature niches with figures of two Doctors of the Church, and higher up, the images of Saint Peter and Saint Paul emerge on corbels, completing a sculptural ensemble of great visual interest.

The Artistic Expression of the Interior

Inside, the Church of Mondrões reveals a longitudinal plan with a single nave, featuring three bays, and a more recessed rectangular chancel. The nave's ceiling is characterized by star-ribbed vaults, a detail that evokes its Manueline roots. The choir loft, which stands over a depressed arch, and the lateral pulpits, with their carved railings simulating marble, add a touch of distinction. Particular attention should be paid to the four lateral chapels and the main altarpiece, all in Rococo style, richly worked in polychrome and gilded carving, filling the space with artistic brilliance. The chancel, in turn, has a false wooden ceiling with coffers, where a painting alluding to Saint James is centrally located.

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