Chapel of Our Lady of Grace

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Aveiro > Oliveira de Azeméis > Cesar > Zona de Nossa Senhora da Graça

Location

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça is located in the town of Cesar, municipality of Oliveira de Azeméis. The building is situated on a small rise, which gives it a prominent position in the surrounding area. Access is gained via a stone stairway, flanked by walls. The nearby grounds are partially landscaped, contributing to a more pleasant environment.

Historical Background

The origins of this chapel appear to date back to the 17th century, a period when its original version was likely built. Historical records, such as those by Padre Carvalho da Costa in 1708 and the Parish Memoirs of 1758, already referenced the chapel's existence. Over time, the building underwent transformations, with the 1908 reconstruction, funded by private initiative, being a significant milestone in its history. Later, in 1971, the bell tower was added, also the result of a local act of benevolence, as attested by the inscription placed there.

Exterior Aspects

With a simple rectangular plan, the chapel features plastered and painted facades in a pink hue, contrasting with the plinth and other elements in granite stonework. The main facade, facing west, stands out with its triangular pediment finish and axially aligned openings, which include a flattened arch portal surmounted by a large window, also arched. The side facades are marked by windows that allow natural light into the interior. On the left side, slightly set back, stands the quadrangular bell tower, an element that draws attention with its four perfect-arch openings and circular clock faces.

Interior Details

Inside, the walls are plastered and painted white, creating a bright environment. In the lower part of the walls, a dado of two-tone, blue and white patterned tiles runs through the space and adds a traditional decorative touch. The perfect-arch triumphal arch marks the separation to the chancel. Here, a late-Baroque carved altarpiece is found. This wooden piece, polychromed with simulated marble and gilded, has a notable structure with columns and a central niche housing a pedestal, flanked by corbels supporting imagery. The altarpiece ensemble is enriched by decorative elements such as acanthus friezes and shell motifs.