Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Vila Real > Chaves > Chaves
The Church of Santa Maria Maior, also known as the Mother Church of Chaves, is located in a central spot in the city, in the heart of the town in the Trás-os-Montes region. Its position in the urban fabric reflects the importance this temple has always held for the community, marking an imposing presence on the urban landscape of Chaves.
The roots of the Church of Santa Maria Maior are deep, dating back to ancient times. It is thought that the site where the church stands today was once home to earlier temples, perhaps of Visigothic or even Roman origin. Its existence is formally documented from 1259, in the Royal Inquiries of King Afonso. The building we know today has its oldest origins in a 12th-century Romanesque construction, from which striking elements such as the robust bell tower and part of its original portal are still preserved.
Over the centuries, the church has undergone several interventions. One of the most significant occurred during the reign of King John III, in the 16th century, when the Romanesque structure was enhanced with Renaissance elements. Later, in the 18th century, the temple underwent further renovations that contributed to its current appearance, bearing witness to the different artistic periods that shaped its features.
The Church of Santa Maria Maior is distinguished by an interesting fusion of architectural styles, reflecting its long history. Visitors can observe the transition from Romanesque to Renaissance. Noteworthy are the two portals added in the 16th century, which show a clear inspiration from Italian architecture. One of them features a round arch, flanked by small columns, and is topped by a triangular pediment.
The side portal, attributed to the stonemason and sculptor João Noblé, is notable for its detailed decoration. It features grotesque motifs and, on the extrados of the arch, one can admire the sculpted busts of St. Paul and St. Peter, giving a unique artistic touch to the temple's entrance.
Upon entering the church, the visitor is invited to explore a largely preserved medieval structure. The interior consists of three naves, separated by robust pillars that attest to the building's antiquity. The ceiling, though made of wood and dating from the 19th century, replaced the original barrel vaults that once covered the space.
Before the chancel, there are two side chapels of interest. One of them is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, dating from the 16th century and rebuilt in the mid-18th century. Opposite it is the Chapel of St. Mary. The chancel, rebuilt in the mid-16th century, is one of the highlights of the interior, with its round triumphal arch and a ribbed vault supported by corbels. A panel of azulejo tiles, alluding to the Assumption of Mary, crowns the triumphal arch, adding beauty and symbolism to the space.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.739611,-7.470892
Coordinates DMS: 41°44'22.6"N 07°28'15.2"W
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