Chapel of Our Lady of Piety (inside the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Conception)

Category: Religious Architecture > Ensemble

District: Aveiro > Anadia > Mogofores > Malaposta

Location:

Located in the Malaposta area, in Mogofores, Anadia municipality, the Chapel of Our Lady of Pity (also known as the Pintos Chapel) is integrated into the urban fabric, on a quiet and narrow residential street. The building is annexed to the Church of Our Lady of the Conception, with which it shares the facade, but distinguishes itself by its own historical value. The surrounding area is marked by low and simple constructions, which allows the silhouette of the tower with its bell gable to discreetly stand out in the urban landscape.

Despite the proximity of houses and walls, pedestrian access is easy, and the place maintains a peaceful atmosphere, characteristic of a small locality with deep historical roots. The facade exhibits neo-Gothic elements, visible in the main pointed arch door and the upper stained-glass window, subtly yet strikingly integrating into the surrounding environment.

Origin and History

The Chapel of Our Lady of Pity was built between 1670 and 1672 on the initiative of Cristóvão Pinto de Paiva, a nobleman of the Royal House. It served as a funerary chapel for its founder, who was buried there in 1672. The building remained practically intact throughout the centuries, even after the major reformulation of the main church in 1886, having been carefully integrated into the new matrix structure.

This space is one of the few preserved testimonies of 17th-century Coimbra Mannerism in the region, also reflecting French artistic influences, namely Ruanesque ones. Its longevity and degree of preservation make the chapel a valuable example of local religious heritage, with direct links to the history of Portuguese nobility.

Architecture and Artistic Elements

The chapel features a centered and symmetrical plan, forming a square delimited by four perfect arches. Resting on these arches is a dome with eight coffers, in a solid and balanced structure. The walls are decorated with geometric and vegetal motifs in relief, lending the space a visual richness that combines architectural sobriety with delicate ornamentation.

The altarpiece, in gilded woodcarving, represents a focal point of great artistic value. In a Mannerist style with Baroque influences, it highlights the image of Our Lady of Pity at the center, flanked by Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Anthony. The bas-reliefs feature representations of episodes from the life of Christ and saints, adding symbolic depth to the ensemble. An inscription on one of the walls, accompanied by the founder's coat of arms, reinforces the memorial and devotional character of this space.

Atmosphere and Setting

Despite being located in an urban area, the atmosphere around the chapel conveys serenity. The surroundings, though simple, help to focus attention on the building, without visual distractions. The small churchyard, with plants and discreet details, contributes to the sense of welcome and respect that the place inspires.

Ideal for those looking to explore places with historical and religious significance, the Chapel of Our Lady of Pity offers direct contact with the art, faith, and memory of an era, in a space where time seems to have passed with delicacy.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt