Church of Our Lady of the Assumption

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Santa Comba Dão > Treixedo > Treixedo e Nagozela

Location

Situated in the peaceful locality of Treixedo, in the municipality of Santa Comba Dão, the Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção holds a central position, accessible via Rua da Igreja. Its presence marks the urban landscape of this village, offering a point of reference and a space of tranquility in the Union of Parishes of Treixedo and Nagozela, located within the Viseu region.

An 18th-Century Edifice

The history of this parish church dates back to the early 18th century, with its first stone laid on May 29, 1712. This inaugural moment was attended by the Bishop of Viseu, D. Jerónimo Soares, attesting to the construction's importance from its very beginnings. Subsequently, in 1793, significant works were carried out inside, with the carpenter João de Almeida being responsible for the execution of the ceiling and the choir loft, adding new elements to the original structure.

Interior and Artistic Richness

Upon entering the Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, visitors are greeted by an environment of significant artistic beauty. Its architecture, predominantly Baroque-Rococo in style, unfolds in a longitudinal plan that harmoniously integrates the nave and the chancel. Of note is the nave's ceiling, which displays elegant coffer work, and the chancel, crowned by a vault. The interior is further enriched by frescoes and exceptionally rich gilded woodwork, which lends a special brilliance to its five altars. In one part of the church, it is possible to observe the tombstone of Father Simão Pais do Amaral, a testament to local history.

A Notable Feature: The Orientation

A particularly intriguing and notable aspect of the architecture of the Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção is its orientation. Unlike most Christian temples, which traditionally face east, this church in Treixedo has its main entrance facing precisely east, while the tabernacle is positioned to the west. This peculiarity gives it a singularity that distinguishes it within the panorama of Portuguese religious architecture, inviting close observation and reflection on its conception.

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