Church of Saint Mary of the Angels

Church of Saint Mary of the Angels
Igreja de Santa Maria dos Angos (Portuguese)
As viewed from the square
Religion
AffiliationRoman Catholic
DioceseDiocese of Viana do Castelo
RiteRoman
Parish Church
1276
Location
LocationValença, Portugal
Interactive map of Church of Saint Mary of the Angels
Coordinates42°01′57.733″N 8°38′43.351″W / 42.03270361°N 8.64537528°W / 42.03270361; -8.64537528
Architecture
TypeChurch
StyleRomanesque, Baroque, Neoclassical, Revival
Completed1276
Official name: Igreja Paroquial de Valença / Igreja de Santa Maria dos Anjos
Reference no.6437
Website
www.monumentos.gov.pt
Main door, detail

The Church of Saint Mary of the Angels, also known as the Parish Church of Valença, is a historic religious building located within the walled area of the Valencia de Minho.[1] It is located next to the Gaviarra Gate (the northernmost door of the wall) and represents the main church of the town in the Minho region.

It has been classified as a National Monument.[2]

Building

The building has medieval origins, having been founded around 1276.[3] and consecrated that year. The architecture of the building is a mixture of styles, presenting characteristics Romanesque on the portal of the main façade, as well as late Baroque, Neoclassical and Revival elements.[1] The interior, with a longitudinal plan and a single nave, has a wooden floor delimited by granite guides and a polychrome carved main altarpiece. Also noteworthy is the old baptismal font in the baptistery and the Chapel of the Carlas, located externally.

Particular this church, is the contrast between a simple exterior appearance and an interior ornate and spiritual, which conveys peace and calm. Presently (2026), the church restoration work are being carried out. Next to the main façade is the 18th century Chapel of Mercy, which houses a small museum of sacred art.

References