Stepping back in time unveils the Igreja de Avessadas – S. Martinho. It stands as a testament to faith and architectural evolution. This sacred space started as the temple for the medieval parish of Candoso. Candoso was one of many parishes in the Entre-Douro-e-Minho region during Portugal’s early years.
The Igreja de Avessadas – S. Martinho’s layout reflects its early construction. It features a relatively small nave and a quadrangular chancel. Thick walls and discreet window slits filter light into the interior. The building has a compact and sturdy appearance. Romanesque corbels support the cornice beneath the roof. These elements showcase its Romanesque origins. The presence of double-arched windows and a sparsely decorated triumphal arch further confirm its 13th-century Romanesque roots.
This Igreja de Avessadas – S. Martinho exemplifies how Romanesque style lingered in rural Portugal. Even after the Gothic style emerged, it remained. In northern and central areas like Trás-os-Montes and Beira Alta Interior this was especially true. Gothic novelties arrived late if at all in Entre-Douro-e-Minho.
The Igreja de Avessadas – S. Martinho we see today results from major renovations. These happened centuries after its initial construction. In the 17th century during the Baroque period the interior was enhanced. Gilded altars were added with elaborate decorations. These modest creations embraced new Baroque devotional practices. They provided multiple focal points for religious expression. The main facade was transformed at this time. The original Romanesque arch was replaced with a straight lintel door. A vertical Baroque window sits above it. The square bell tower attached to the facade is also Baroque.
Later in the 19th century new altars were constructed. These altars showcase a neoclassical style. This final intervention highlights the church’s continued importance. It remained a central point of local religious life.
In recent decades a planimetric survey and restoration were carried out. Structure consolidation was a key focus. During this time some windows were restored to their original form. Architect Siza Vieira was tasked with designing the interior furniture.
Interestingly the parish of São Martinho de Avessadas was once an abbey. The House of Calçada in Guimarães presented it. Later the Mitra da Sé do Porto took over. The “Estatistica Parochial” of 1862 mentions Gonçalo Peixoto da Silva of Alenquer’s presentation. Padre Cardoso noted in 1747 that it belonged to the old Benviver municipality. By 1850 P. Marques listed it in the Soalhães municipality. This remained until Soalhães was dissolved by decrees in 1852 and 1853. Benviver was also dissolved by these decrees but Avessadas may have already separated. It was part of the Benviver archdeaconry in the 12th century.
Today the Igreja de Avessadas – S. Martinho stands as a symbol of enduring faith. It is a blend of architectural styles and historical transformations. It reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.