The origin of the Church of Senhor Bom Jesus da Cruz is related to the mysterious appearance of a black Cross on the ground of Campo da Feira, in December 1504, and where a small chapel was soon built to remember the divine sign.

Two centuries later, in 1704, a church was built in the same place according to João Antunes’ project. The well-known Portuguese architect opted for a very characteristic style of the north of the country in which granite, the main material used in local construction, and white lime combined in harmonious baroque forms, in this case of Italian inspiration.

The interior, with an octagonal plan, impresses with the sturdiness of the monument as seen through the thick walls and the heavy granite dome, measuring around 10 meters in diameter.

Note the gilded altars, namely the one with the image of the Lord of the Cross dating from the 16th century, and the 18th century tile panels designed by João Neto, a Lisbon tile maker.

One of the most important religious festivals in the municipality of Barcelos takes place here, the Festa das Cruzes, which takes place at the beginning of May. At this time, it is worth a visit to admire the carpets of petals that cover the floor of the church during the festival that lasts five days.