hugo correia encircles white concrete church in northern portugal with elliptical rings

internally, the nave's white walls are illuminated by diffused natural light that enters through hidden skylights.

philip stevens June 25, 2018 2 min

architect hugo correia has completed a concrete church in vila nova de famalicão, a town in the north of portugal. built on an elevated site with views of its surroundings, the church of s. tiago de antas is prominently positioned at the center of the community. the building itself has been designed to exist in harmony with the region’s historical setting, which includes a romanesque church, as well as its mortuary chapel and cemetery.

hugo correia church
all images by joão morgado

externally, the volume’s appearance is defined by its white concrete walls, which comprise minimal openings. internally, the simple layout is capable of accommodating more than 500 people, with the nave’s white walls illuminated by diffused natural light that enters through hidden skylights. meanwhile, a subterranean level contains cultural and educational facilities for children and young people. the wooden furniture used was realized specifically for the project by the design team.

hugo correia church
the church is located in vila nova de famalicão, a town in the north of portugal

the design incorporates symbolic significance throughout. the rings surrounding the structure symbolize the crown of thorns placed on jesus’ head during the crucifixion, while two marble lines on the floor connect the exterior of the building to the altar. one represents the jordan river — where jesus was baptized — and leads to the baptismal font, while the other represents the sword of st. james, and leads to the church’s pulpit.

hugo correia church
two marble lines lead to the pulpit and baptismal font respectively