Nossa Senhora da Penha de Franca Church

Nossa Senhora da Penha de Franca Church

Founded: 1626Â Â Â Â Feast: 27th December

History: The Church of Our Lady of Penha de Franca was built by the Franciscans in the village of Virlasa in 1626. The church collapsed and was rebuilt from its foundations in 1655. The erstwhile Portuguese Government had declared it a national monument in 1932.

Architectural notes:

• Mannerist Neo-Roman style
• Large size, 3 bays x 3 storeys
• Frontispiece has swan-neck pediment
• Coupled pilasters at corners
• Consoles for cornices at all levels
• Finials of ball and spear-and-ball types
• Twin octagonal bell turrets with ball finials