Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viseu > Vila Nova de Paiva > Vila Nova de Paiva > Adro da Igreja Matriz
The Mother Church of Vila Nova de Paiva is located in the Churchyard of the Mother Church, in the center of the town. Its slightly elevated position relative to the surrounding urban environment gives it a distinct presence and facilitates its observation from a distance, marking the landscape of Vila Nova de Paiva.
The history of the Mother Church of Vila Nova de Paiva dates back to the 11th century, when the original temple, of Romanesque foundation, was erected. Over the centuries, the building underwent various interventions and expansions. A large part of the current structure resulted from a significant reconstruction in the 17th century, which gave it simpler and more robust lines. Despite the alterations, it is still possible to glimpse elements that harken back to its more remote past.
The interior of the Mother Church reveals a remarkable contrast with its facade, surprising with its artistic richness. The highlight is the chancel, which dates from the first half of the 18th century, where one can admire exuberant gilded wood carving on the high altar. The chancel ceiling is a true work of art, composed of dozens of painted coffers depicting the genealogy of Jesus Christ and other sacred figures, in a singular visual narrative.
At the access to the church choir, columns are still visible, bearing witness to the temple's primitive Romanesque structure. On the exterior, the granite construction features a galilee that precedes the main entrance and serves as the base for the bell tower. One of the side doors of the church is adorned with a relief cross of Christ, a detail that complements the overall aesthetics of the building.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.852454,-7.7274072
Coordinates DMS: 40°51'8.8"N 07°43'38.7"W
Weather Vila Nova de Paiva
On-duty Pharmacy Vila Nova de Paiva
