Wood and building construction in the Convent of Vilar de Frades (Barcelos, Portugal): the beam systems of the 16th century

Abstract

The monastic and conventual complex of S. Salvador de Vilar de Frades, located in the municipality of Barcelos (Portugal), has an attested occupation since the 11th century. As a result of the different constructive phases, the current edification integrates a diversified group of material and raw material applied according to different construction techniques.

Through a methodological approach that favours the intersection between different types of sources, the present article aims to analyse wood as building construction material in Vilar de Frades, namely in the beam systems of the 16th century, as well as in the long-term articulation between liturgical furniture and the edification.