Century XX
The parish dates back to the 12th century and a Romanesque temple situated in Agra dos Mouros, according to tradition. The original temple had become derelict and the parish church was moved to the present site around 1600. It has undergone several alterations over time and the current building opened in 2000, designed by architect Luís Cunha. Neoclassical in style, the main façade is symmetrical with two bell towers, but only with a bell on the left side. The main door, facing north, is topped by a niche with the granite image of its patron saint, Saint Michael.
Its interior is harmonious, keeping some elements of the original temple such as the main chapel, some carvings, the stonework granites and angels carrying a torch assumedly contemporary. The emphasis is on the triptych of the high altar, the stained-glass windows and tile panels allusive to biblical passages and the great span of the nave that gives this temple a unique monumentality.
Daily, 09h00-18h00
Saint Michael the Archangel
St. Michael the Archangel is also the patron saint of Apúlia. Omnipresent in Christian iconography as the head of the angels who oppose the fallen angel, Lucifer, the principle of evil, because he is the leader of the opposition to God. Unlike him, St Michael fights for truth and humility, and against pride and lust. Chief of the ‘armies of God’, St. Michael is the great protector, always present when invoked. A symbol of goodness and redemption of lost souls, he is depicted as a young and strong warrior, fighting against evil and saving the “souls” of worshippers from hell.
The Feast of St. Michael the Archangel is celebrated on September 29 in the Liturgical Calendar, together with the archangels St. Gabriel and St. Raphael, representing the leadership of good against evil.
