Igreja Paroquial de Santiago de Tavira, Gothic church in Tavira, Portugal.
Igreja Paroquial de Santiago de Tavira is a church in Tavira with two prominent bell towers and an ornate main entrance portal. The interior features a white wooden ceiling that contrasts with darker woodwork throughout the space.
The Order of Santiago built this church after the Moors left the region. The earthquake of 1755 damaged it severely, and architect Francisco Xavier Fabri later restored it.
The interior contains paintings from the 16th century showing scenes from Christ's life, alongside gilded wooden ornaments that fill the space with detail. These decorations show how important this place was to those who worshipped here.
The church stands near Tavira Castle and is easy to reach on foot. It is usually open during daytime hours but offers few modern facilities, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore.
Beneath the church floor lie the tombs of seven Christian knights who died fighting the Moors in the 13th century. These warriors represent the close connection between this place and the region's history of defense.
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