Main Church of Caminha

Description

Solid church in granite built inside the medieval town walls. Work began in 1488 under the guidance of Biscay master Tomé de Tolosa, and using parts of a primitive Romanesque chapel (remains are visible in the north side); it pursued slowly, until the completion of the tower of the main façade in 1556. Important architects involved in the construction include João de Tolosa and Pero Galego. Inside, the building is a basilica with main nave and two aisles, and is notable for its inlaid ceiling (1565) showing oriental influences. The Mareantes Chapel, built by the corporation of seafarers, is one of the earliest renaissance works in Portugal. The church was classified as a National Monument on June 16, 1910.