Mother Church (former collegiate church) and Tomb of D Afonso, 4th Count of Ourém

The construction of the Colegiada de Nossa Senhora das Misericórdias began in 1450 on the site of the Church of Santa Maria de Ourém. This was one of the largest and oldest Collegiate Churches founded by the ecclesiastical action of the Ducal House of Bragança. The earthquake of 1755 destroyed the church, leaving only the crypt unharmed, which is housed on the lower floor. By order of King José I, the current building was rebuilt in 1766, but already in the Pombaline style.

The Crypt or Chapel of the Marquis was founded in the 15th century. It is a unique example of Gothic architecture. It houses the tomb of the 4th Count of Ourém, who died in 1460 and was transferred to this tomb in 1487.

The tomb, made of white stone, is decorated with coats of arms and other motifs in relief, with a statue standing out. The Count’s face is considered one of the best sculpted in Portugal before the Renaissance.