The Church of Mercy in Tavira is among the 49 heritage sites shortlisted for the National Semi-Final of the New 7 Wonders of Portugal, taking place on September 5 in Sintra. Voting for this phase opened on Saturday, August 29, with votes being registered through the telephone number 761 207 095, at a cost of one euro plus VAT per call, or through the TVI application, which also allows participation from abroad. At the semi-final gala, three heritage sites will be selected from each category, totaling 21 that advance to the National Final, scheduled for September 12, also in Sintra.
Commissioned in 1541, the Church of Mercy is considered one of the most relevant expressions of Algarve Renaissance architecture, with the work entrusted to master André Pillarte. The interior brings together elements from different periods of Portuguese art, including the Renaissance portal with the Virgin of Mercy, Baroque altarpieces, the main altarpiece from 1722, painting of Our Lady of Conception, and tile panels from 1760 dedicated to the Fourteen Works of Mercy. After the 1755 earthquake, the building assumed the functions of a parish seat, strengthening its connection to the population.
The Holy House of Mercy of Tavira sees this participation as recognition of the importance of a monument with nearly five centuries of history and the work developed in its preservation and enhancement. The institution intends to mobilize citizens, institutions, and supporters once again to secure a place among the 21 finalist heritage sites. A cheer squad from the Church of Mercy will be present in Sintra to support the candidacy.
Currently, the heritage site is valued through the House Museum, Historical Archive, exhibitions, visits, educational projects, and cultural programming. The Church maintains its religious dimension and connection to local traditions, namely through the Procession of the Burial of the Lord on Good Friday, and also integrates fado sessions into its cultural programming.
