Church of Saint Martin of Mouros

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Resende > São Martinho de Mouros > Guardais

Location

The Church of São Martinho de Mouros stands in the locality of São Martinho de Mouros, in the municipality of Resende, in the Guardais area. It is situated in a semi-urban environment, isolated on a gentle slope, resting on an artificial flat surface supported by a high granite wall. This setting contributes to a tranquil and engaging atmosphere, with a churchyard featuring a prominent stone cross, located within an area of scenic interest. The church's main facade directly borders the public road, which is paved with granite cubes.

Romanesque Architecture and the Singular Tower

Dating back to the 13th century, this church is one of the most remarkable examples of Romanesque architecture in Portugal, distinguished by the unusual volume of its facade. Its peculiarity lies in its centralized, quadrangular tower-facade, which gives the building a robust appearance, evoking a true fortified temple. Although its primary function is liturgy, the presence of this tower reflects the historical need for Christian populations to protect themselves during a period of reconquest. The main facade is marked by an axial portal with a pointed arch, adorned with four archivolts and capitals sculpted with vegetal and zoomorphic motifs. Above the portal, one can observe old corbels that once supported a porch.

Artistic Details and Historical Legacy

Over the centuries, the Church of São Martinho de Mouros has undergone various interventions, especially during the Modern and Baroque periods, which enriched its interior. In the chancel, one can admire a polychrome wooden coffered ceiling, with hagiographic paintings that have withstood the test of time. The main altarpiece, in national style, features rich gilded carving, with twisted columns and decorative elements. On the Epistle side, a 17th-century marquetry pulpit with bronze details deserves attention. Near the triumphal arch, vestiges of 16th-century mural paintings remain, which were once hidden, and which allude to the temple's patron saint and religious figures. An inscription carved into an ashlar stone in the chancel, dated 1217, testifies to the beginning of its construction, suggesting an ambitious initial project that envisioned three vaulted naves.

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