Nossa Senhora do Pópulo, Caldas da Rainha
The church of Nossa Senhora do Pópulo in Caldas da Rainha is a beautiful place of worship, now classed as a National Monument.
It was the chapel of the Hospital Termal Rainha D. Leonor and has elements of Manueline architecture.
History
The church was built in the 15th century. The Hospital Termal Rainha D. Leonor was founded by Queen Leonor in 1485.
Construction of the church was completed 15 years later in 1500. It had direct communication with the hospital via a vaulted corridor.
It was were new arrivals at the Hospital confessed their sins, received communion and then began their treatment.
The church became the Parish Church or Igreja Matriz in 1510 and the bell tower was completed.
The church underwent various changes and improvements over the years. These included Various improvement and rehabilitation works the construction of the high choir (1544-46), the azulejos tile covering (1658-59) and the installation of a new organ, donated by D. João VI (1825). In 1937, 17th century tiles from one of the cloisters of Convento da Graça in Lisbon were transferred to the church.
Architecture
The church was designed by Mateus Fernandes, who worked on the Monastery of Batalha for over 20 years.
The single nave church has a vaulted ceiling and 17th century azulejos tiling.
Paintings in the church can be attributed to various artists including Cristóvão de Figueiredo.
The bell tower stands outside the church and includes a clock, gargoyles and statues of the Angel Gabriel and the Virgin of the Annunciation.
Access
Rua Rodrigo Berquo 5
2500-246 Caldas da Rainha
Other places of interest in Caldas da Rainha include the Parque Dom Carlos I, the daily Praça da Fruta (Mercado de Rua Caldense) and the excellent Museu de José Malhoa (José Malhoa Museum).
Accommodation
Caldas da Rainha offers a small range of accommodation from rentals to high-end hotels.
The summer months of July and August are the peak season so you will need to book early to guarantee a room at this time.
Some recommendations are the SANA Silver Coast Hotel, the Hotel Dona Leonor and the apartment Bordallo's Prime Apartments.
Close to Caldas da Rainha Station are the three star Hotel Cristal Caldas and the Europeia Hotel, also with three stars.
See a complete listing of places to stay in Caldas da Rainha.
Featured Hotel in Caldas da Rainha
SANA Silver Coast Hotel
Hotel terrace, restaurant, parking & free WiFi.
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