Old Church of Canas de Santa Maria

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Tondela > Canas de Santa Maria > Póvoa da Catarina

Location

Located in Canas de Santa Maria, in the municipality of Tondela and the district of Viseu, the Old Church is specifically situated in the area known as Póvoa da Catarina. This setting gives it a distinctive presence in the local landscape, inviting visitors to a moment of tranquility and observation of a building with a profound history.

Historical Background and Archaeological Discoveries

The history of the Old Church of Canas de Santa Maria dates back to a distant past, with the first documentary references to this place of worship appearing as early as the 10th century, linking it to the Monastery of Lorvão. Although the oldest visible material elements today may date from the 14th century, it is widely accepted that its foundation occurred in the 12th century, perhaps by order of D. Mafalda, wife of D. Afonso Henriques, dedicated to Santa Maria.

Recent archaeological interventions in its surrounding area have revealed significant discoveries. Primitive walls, believed to belong to the original 12th-century temple, as well as vestiges of burial sites, have been uncovered. These works also brought to light various important materials, such as Hispano-Moorish tiles, coins, and ceramic fragments, spanning a period from the 13th century to the contemporary era, enriching the knowledge about the site's history.

Architectural and Heritage Value

The architectural value of the Old Church of Canas de Santa Maria is undeniable, with its portal being a particularly prominent feature. It is this portal that, due to its uniqueness and historical-artistic significance, was classified as a National Monument in 1926, underscoring its importance in the Portuguese heritage landscape.

Over the centuries, the building has undergone several rehabilitations, testifying to its continued importance to the community and the need to preserve its structure. In more recent years, structural repair and exterior space requalification works have been carried out, ensuring the conservation of this temple. Its architecture reflects the transformations it has undergone over time, but it retains the charm of a building with centuries of history, inviting contemplation of its exterior and the surrounding environment.

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