The intricate carvings on the main portal of Igreja Matriz de Jovim whisper tales of Gondomar’s rich past. Igreja Matriz de Jovim stands proudly in Gondomar a testament to centuries of faith and craftsmanship. Its foundation stretches back to medieval times though much of what you see today dates from the 17th and 18th centuries. Notice the windows and niches on the main facade. They survived from the original structure.
The church was substantially rebuilt in the 1700s. The main altar and the side altars were added then. The main altar boasts impressive carved decoration. Its columns are replaced by unique wall sections shaped like battlements a clever architectural choice. The side altars are particularly noteworthy. They showcase a mix of Mannerist and Rococo styles a beautiful blend of eras. The altar on the Gospel side is especially interesting. It retains its original Mannerist front panel. Note the intricate rolled cartouches and plant-based motifs creating a lovely pattern.
In the 18th century the old bell tower was transformed into the bell tower you see today. The church underwent restoration at the end of the 20th century. Some more recent additions to the church such as some altars were removed then. The interior is rectangular featuring a nave a chancel and a sacristy. There is also the bell tower on the left. Notice the false barrel vaults. They are made of wooden coffers. These coffers are uniformly illuminated by windows high up on the side walls.
The main facade is striking. It has a gable roof. A 19th century portal and window are central features. They are flanked by niches with Mannerist molding. The side facades are adorned with simple friezes and cornices. They each feature simple doors. Inside Igreja Matriz de Jovim boasts a high choir. It is accessed via the bell tower. A baptismal font sits at the base of the bell tower. A pulpit is located on the Gospel side. The side chapels contain impressive Rococo altarpieces. The altar in the Gospel chapel belongs to the Third Order of Saint Francis.
The chancel and baptismal font feature 17th century tiles. The pulpit has metal inlays. These are likely remnants of 17th-century decorative work. The Latin inscription above the main portal reads “SUNT MEDICI COSMAS SIMULET DAMIANUS UTERQUE QUAM COLIT EXTINC DANON SINIR ESSE DOMUM” with the date 1727. This inscription and others around the Igreja Matriz de Jovim are a reminder of its long and multifaceted history. This church is more than just a building. It’s a living archive of Gondomar’s story. It’s a place where faith heritage and artistry converge. As you leave Igreja Matriz de Jovim carry with you its enduring spirit.