Church of Santa Maria do Castelo
Faro
The Church of Santa Maria do Castelo in Tavira, Portugal, is a National Monument with deep historical roots dating back to the 13th century. Constructed following the Reconquista of Tavira from the Moors, it was established under the Order of Santiago by D. Paio Peres Correia to replace an earlier Arab mosque. The church originally featured Gothic architecture, evident in its main portal with four archivolts and vegetal capitals from the late 14th or early 15th century. It suffered damage during the 1755 earthquake and was rebuilt in the late 18th century under Bishop D. Francisco Gomes do Avelar. Inside, notable features include the Manueline-style Chapel of Senhor dos Passos, adorned with heraldic decorations and symbolic motifs such as dragons and belts, reflecting the patronage of Lançarote de Melo. The church also houses the tombs of seven Christian knights and the remains of D. Paio Peres Correia, a key figure in Tavira's conquest. A statue of D. Nuno Álvares Pereira, an important Portuguese military leader, is also present, linking the church to broader national history. The church's blend of Gothic and Manueline elements, its historical significance, and its role as a religious and cultural landmark make it a unique destination.
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Astuce: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and appreciate the intricate Manueline chapel details. Purchasing tickets in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Check opening hours on the official website or contact via phone for guided tour information.
Faits intéressants
- •The main Gothic portal features four archivolts with vegetal capitals dating from the late 14th or early 15th century.
- •A tomb containing the remains of seven Christian knights and D. Paio Peres Correia lies within the church, marking its historical significance.
- •The Manueline-style Chapel of Senhor dos Passos is decorated with heraldic symbols and unique motifs such as dragons and belts, representing the patron's lineage.
- •In 1718, a tomb was found containing a corpse and a Moorish sword (alfange), linking the site to its Moorish past.
- •The church was rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake under the guidance of Bishop D. Francisco Gomes do Avelar.
Histoire
The Church of Santa Maria do Castelo was built in the 13th century after Tavira was reconquered from the Moors, initiated by the Order of Santiago under D.
Paio Peres Correia.
It replaced a former mosque, reflecting the city's transition from Moorish to Christian rule.
The church was originally Gothic but was heavily damaged in the 1755 earthquake and reconstructed in the late 18th century.
Over the centuries, it underwent several interior modifications, including the addition of the Manueline Chapel of Senhor dos Passos in the early 16th century.
It has been classified as a National Monument since 1910.
Guide du lieu
Main Gothic PortalLate 14th or early 15th century
The original Gothic portal of the church, featuring four archivolts with pointed arches and vegetal capitals, dating from the late 14th or early 15th century, showcasing medieval craftsmanship.
Chapel of Senhor dos PassosEarly 16th century
A Manueline-style chapel located in the lateral nave, built in the early 16th century and sponsored by Lançarote de Melo. It features dynamic ribbed vaulting decorated with heraldic motifs, dragons, and belts symbolizing the patron's family lineage.
Tombs of D. Paio Peres Correia and Seven Knights13th century (original burial), tomb relocated in 18th century
Located near the main altar, these tombs hold the remains of the knight who led the conquest of Tavira and seven Christian knights who died in battle against the Moors, reflecting the church's historical and religious importance.
Statue of D. Nuno Álvares Pereira1943
A 20th-century statue of the renowned Portuguese military leader, sculpted by José Ferreira Thedim, highlighting the church's connection to national history and the Order of Santiago.
Contact
Téléphone: 969 103 485
