Get away from the hustle and bustle of busy life and step into a calm and serene church. Find solace from the beauty of the architecture. It is surrounded by an air of calm, very peaceful to sit and contemplate. Down the years this church, Ireja De Sao Pedro, suffered wear and tear but its exterior still proudly displays the facade and the original Romanesque apse. The apse or dome which is a semi-circular recess has undergone many renovations yet it still stands sober and simple.

The doorway which leads to the church bears witness to the first construction. The medieval walls and the architecture all dates back to the gothic era.

On the exterior the main facade has a portal of limestone set in a protruding body. A series of cantilevers with figures of animals supports the cornice at the top of the protruding body. Many of these figures have eroded but still shows the competence and dedication of the sculptor.This beautiful little church is filled with gilded woodwork in its interior, depicting the life of Christ and rural view of angels reaping corn, and harvesting and gathering grapes for the Last Supper. Roses, lilies and columbines run all along the nave on the ceiling, and glazed tiles cover almost all the interior walls from bottom to top. These tiles called Azulejo tiles, were not only used as ornamental art but also had a specific functional capacity like temperature control inside the church.

The main alter is surrounded by baroque gilt-painted carving depicting the 17th century architecture. It shines with radiance. At the foot of the alter adding splendour are delicate flowers, in red and yellowand white, all framed in lovely tasteful Madeiran embroidery. This alter piece was created by the painter Joao da Costa, who was buried in this church.

• If you are lucky then you can get to hear the young choir practising but unfortunately there is no leaflet with information regarding this.

• Recommended time to visit is at 3.00 pm.

• Restaurant Sao Pedro
• Bonfim
• Mona Pizza
• The Prince Charles
• Docinho das Pretas
• Carreirinha

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