Gaze upon the Church of Saint Mary Major of Tarouquela. Its Romanesque heart beats strong even now. This unassuming church in Cinfães holds secrets. It whispers tales of a powerful past. A past interwoven with the lives of noble families and devout nuns.
Tarouquela wasn’t always just a parish. It was once a thriving municipality. That changed in the late 17th century. It then became part of Sanfins until 1855. Only then did it finally become part of Cinfães. But its true story lies within these aged stones.
The church itself is a testament to the Benedictine nuns. They lived and worshipped here for centuries. Their order initially followed St Augustine’s rule. However under Abbess D Urraca Viegas it changed to the Benedictine Rule. The nuns belonged to prominent regional families. Their influence is reflected in the church’s rich ornamentation.
Look closely at the sculptures. The portals crevices capitals. The tympanum and headboard are all incredibly detailed. Notice the apotropaic animals. These were meant to ward off evil. The two-headed men the snakes the mermaid. These are all symbolic. They represent the beliefs and fears of the time. The so-called dogs of Tarouquela are particularly striking. These quadrupeds have human bodies hanging from their jaws. They are powerful symbols of protection.
Inside the church you’ll find more captivating details. Although much of the interior is from a 1970s restoration the original Romanesque structure remains. There were once five altars. Now only two remain one a high altar and another in the nave. The church has also held the Virgin of the Milk a 16th-century sculpture. It’s believed to be from a Brussels workshop.
Tarouquela’s history stretches back to the 12th century. A couple Ramiro Gonçalves and his wife D Ouruana Nunes acquired the estate. It was originally owned by Egas Moniz and his wife. The monastery’s history is closely tied to the region’s most influential families. The abbesses wielded considerable power. They ruled both spiritually and temporally. The church’s architecture and sculpture reflect the best of the region’s artistic traditions. Even today Tarouquela stands as a lasting testament to faith and resilience. A hidden gem in Portugal’s rich tapestry.