Church of Santa Maria Maggiore

Also known as Matrix or Collegiate Church, the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is the most important religious structure in Barcelos and is a Portuguese National Monument. It is in a great place, facing the river Cávado, the Palace of the Counts of Barcelos, the Pillory and the City. Construction began in the 14th century, but it went through expansions in later centuries, so now it has Romanesque and Gothic elements. Its outside is asymmetrical, with single bell tower. The main entrance consists of 4 archivolts, which are engraved with arms of the third Earl of Barcelos (Don Pedro), who ordered the construction.