Church of the old Convent of Our Lady of the Olive

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Sátão > Sátão > Centro

Location

The Church of the former Convent of Our Lady of Oliva is located in Tojal, an area that marks the boundaries of the Village of Sátão, in the municipality of the same name. This location gives it a serene and discreet atmosphere, slightly removed from the busier center, allowing for a calm and thoughtful appreciation of the site.

Its Origins and Legacy

The building known today as the Church of Our Lady of Oliva was founded in 1633, being inaugurated in 1640. It was established as part of a convent intended to house a community of Dominican nuns, at the initiative of Feliciano de Oliva e Sousa.

Over the centuries, and after the extinction of religious orders, the convent was acquired by private individuals. However, the church was handed over to the local community, ensuring its continuity as a place of worship and heritage for the population. Its preservation benefited from a significant restoration effort in 1968, which preserved its architectural beauty for future generations.

Artistic Treasures of the Interior

Despite an exterior sobriety that frames it in the landscape, the church surprises visitors with the richness of its interior. It features Mannerist-inspired lines and a single nave, where the decoration is exuberant and detailed. The contrast between the simplicity of its facade and the opulence of the elements that fill it is remarkable, creating an environment of profound beauty.

Inside, the eye is drawn to the polychrome tile panels that adorn the nave's walls, telling stories and patterns with their vibrant colors. The main altar displays an impressive carved altarpiece, a sculpted work of art that dominates the space with its grandeur. The church also houses the image of Our Lady of Oliva, dating from 1640, and the tomb of the founder, Feliciano de Oliva e Sousa, in the chancel, elements that connect the present to its rich history and devotion.

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