Art and culture
Church of Saint Mary Magdalene
The Portuguese Manueline style reaches its peak in Extremadura, with this sixteenth century temple.
- Explore
- Iglesia de La Magdalena
The essence of the Manueline style
Location and Contact:
- Tel.:+34 924 49 01 85
- Email: parroquiaenolivenza@gmail.com
- Opening times
Tuesday to Saturday:
10am-1:30pm and 4-6pm (October-April) and 5-7pm (May-September).
Sundays:
10am-1:30pm.
Closed on Mondays.
- Fee
Free admission.
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The Portuguese Manueline style reaches its peak in Extremadura, with this sixteenth century temple.
The church of Saint Mary Magdalene de Olivenza was ordered to be built in the sixteenth century, as a temple and residence for the Bishops of Ceuta.
The facade, in a Portuguese Manueline style, is based on the late Gothic, and is characterised by its naturalistic decorations and marine motifs. You attention will surely be drawn by its false battlements, and its pinnacles, gargoyles or lateral gates. The main door is considered to be the work of the French architect François de Loiret, or his school, for its semblance with the one in the Matriz de Arroches.
When you enter, you will be surprised by its ample interior, both solid and evocative, divided into three naves of columns with spiral motifs which are reminiscent of a ship's ropes. The eighteenth century golden altarpieces, the neo-classical ones in coloured marble and the storiated tilework, are particularly interesting.
Due to its uniqueness and beauty, the Church of Mary Magdalene was chosen as Spain's most interesting site in 2012 in the Repsol Guide competition.
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- Origin:
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- 16th century
- Construction:
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- Church
- Art period:
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- Gothic
- Period in history:
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- 16th century
Gallery:
More suggestions
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Extremadura González Santana Ethnographic Museum
The foundation stone of Olivenza Castle may also be found in this space devoted to traditions and archaeology
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Olivenza — a Templar haven
Claims to the city were a bone of contention between Spain and Portugal on several occasions in the past.
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Valverde de Leganés
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Olivenza Bullring
5,600 spectators can enjoy bullfighting festivals in this beautiful bullring.
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Castle of Olivenza
Located in the municipality of Olivenza in the province of Badajoz, this castle suffered the ravages of war.
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Casa de Misericordia
An old place of refuge for the poor, orphans and invalids that leaves it visitors speechless on account of its Baroque tiling showing works of mercy.