Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo, Gothic church in Lourinhã, Portugal
Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo is a Gothic church featuring a central nave flanked by two side aisles separated by pointed arches. These arches rest on monolithic stone columns, creating tall vertical spaces that draw the eye upward throughout the interior.
Construction began in the second half of the 14th century, divided into two separate phases with Dom Jordan directing the initial work. This extended building process reflects how medieval churches often took years to complete as resources and needs evolved.
The name Santa Maria do Castelo refers to its past as a fortified sanctuary that served both as a place of worship and defense for the local community. The baptismal font with its carved symbols reflects how religious rituals were central to daily life for residents.
The church welcomes visitors Wednesday through Sunday in the afternoon hours, with convenient parking nearby for those arriving by car. The interior layout is straightforward and accessible for exploring the Gothic features at your own pace.
The capitals crowning the columns display different plant motifs carved with care and skill, revealing the craftsmanship of medieval stone workers. These botanical details are easy to overlook when focusing on the building's overall structure, yet they show the attention given to every element.
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