Church of Santiago de Cassurrães

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Mangualde > Santiago de Cassurrães > Casal Mundinho

Location

The Church of Santiago de Cassurrães is serenely integrated into the rural landscape of the locality of Santiago de Cassurrães, in the municipality of Mangualde, more specifically in the Casal Mundinho area. Its position offers an atmosphere of quietude, characteristic of the village surroundings, inviting a moment of contemplation and observation.

A Portal to History

The exterior of the Church of Santiago de Cassurrães reveals a history spanning centuries. Its main facade, while featuring an 18th-century tiled arch portico, houses an older door. This main entrance, carved from robust granite, is a remarkable element. Of simple yet imposing design, with chamfered edges, its full arch is composed of nine voussoirs, suggesting its connection to the temple's primitive construction. It is a visual invitation to discover the richness of its interior.

The Elegance of the Interior

Upon crossing the threshold, visitors are surprised by the remarkable spaciousness and elegance of the church's interior. Its serene atmosphere is enhanced by the light and the beauty of the carving that decorates the chancel arch, displaying a luster that evokes the value of ancient gold. The visual harmony extends to the main altar, with its slender lines. The temple is an example of how various styles were harmoniously combined and utilized throughout the reconstruction works carried out in different periods, creating an environment of profound beauty and peace.

The Churchyard and its Elements

Surrounding the church, the churchyard is a space that complements the visit with elements of interest in its own right. Here, a beautiful granite pulpit stands out, as well as a calvary that punctuates the space. In the immediate vicinity, a marble image of Saint Joseph can be observed, seemingly watching over the temple. Archaeological pieces, collected from the parish, are also present in the churchyard, adding a layer of historical depth to the site. The old cemetery, located next door, reinforces the traditional and deeply rooted character of this church within the community of Santiago de Cassurrães.

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