The weathered stone whispers tales. This is the Igreja Paroquial de Matos. Its history stretches back centuries. A legend unfolds before you.
The Igreja Paroquial de Matos boasts a fascinating past. It began life humbly. It stood as a simple church. Then in the 16th century it was rebuilt. This was thanks to the University of Coimbra. King John III granted them patronage. João de Ruão started the work. Tomé Velho completed it.
Devotion to the Senhor de Matosinhos grew. Especially among those traveling to Brazil. This devotion led to grand renovations. The famed Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni was commissioned. He gave the church its current majestic Baroque form. Nasoni’s influence is clear. The facade is both horizontal and dramatic. Notice the two bell towers. Observe the broken pediment. The main door is elegantly adorned. It features a scallop shell. Two niches house statues of Saints Peter and Paul.
Inside the Igreja Paroquial de Matos another story awaits. The interior is divided into three naves. Look closely at the impressive gilded high altar. There you will see a 12th-century wooden statue of Christ. This remarkable sculpture stands two meters tall. Note its symbolic asymmetry. The left eye gazes towards Heaven. The right eye looks toward Earth. This represents the symbiosis of God and Man.
Luis Pereira da Costa contributed greatly. This renowned 18th-century woodcarver remodeled the chancel. His intricate carvings and gilded work cover much of the church. He added to the beauty and grandeur of this religious sanctuary.
The Igreja Paroquial de Matos is more than just stone and wood. It is a testament to faith. It is a place where legends live on. It is a living history book. It stands as a beautiful symbol of the devotion of people in Matosinhos and beyond.