Convento de Santa Maria de Semide, Benedictine convent in Semide, Portugal.
The Convento de Santa Maria de Semide is a Benedictine convent in Semide featuring a church with a baroque altarpiece, carved wooden choir stalls, and a restored pipe organ from the 18th century. The building retains sections dating to the 16th century along with period decorative tiles throughout its interior.
The convent was founded in 1154 by Martim Anaia and transitioned to housing Benedictine nuns in 1183. Multiple fires occurred in 1664, 1964, and 1990, yet significant portions of the original structure survived each incident.
The church serves as a venue for the annual Miranda do Corvo Choir Meeting, where the restored 18th-century organ continues to support musical performances and local artistic traditions.
The site now operates as a vocational training school and youth shelter, which may affect access for casual visitors. It is best to inquire in advance about visiting opportunities and any guided tour possibilities.
The choir stalls and organ have remarkably survived the fires and showcase 18th-century craftsmanship that remains intact. These musical instruments underwent careful restoration and continue to play a central role in local events.
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