Church founded by fishermen during the reign of King Manuel I, also known as the Seafarers’ Church. Notable for its baroque interior, painted ceiling with King João V’s coat of arms, 18th-century pipe organ, and the statues of Our Lady of the Waves and Saint Peter Gonçalves Telmo.
Schedule Tuesday to Saturday: 09:30 AM – 1:00 PM | 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Closing Day Sunday, Monday and public holidays
Description
Also known as São Pedro Gonçalves Telmo Church
Also referred to as the Seafarers’ Church or Church of the Maritime Commitment, the Church of Nossa Senhora das Ondas was founded during the reign of King Manuel I by the Confraternity of São Pedro Gonçalves Telmo, composed of fishermen and seafarers.
Partially rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, its most striking features lie inside. The baroque interior includes a wooden ceiling painted in oil with a perspective effect, featuring the coat of arms of King João V at the center. Other highlights include a late 18th-century pipe organ, the sculpture of Nossa Senhora das Ondas, and an image of São Pedro Gonçalves Telmo, reflecting Tavira’s deep maritime devotion.
