Meeting Step Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Aveiro > Ovar > Ovar

Location:

The Chapel of the Meeting Pass is located on Rua Alexandre Herculano, one of the arteries that make up the central urban fabric of Ovar. It is thus integrated into the daily environment of the locality, accessible to those who stroll through the centre.

Its position on the street allows for easy observation when exploring this area, integrating harmoniously into the urban landscape.

Historical Value

This chapel is an element with deep roots in Ovar's history, dating back to the 18th century. It is part of a remarkable set of seven chapels spread throughout the locality, all built at the same time.

These constructions were created to mark specific moments of the Stations of the Cross (Via Sacra), a path traditionally associated with the Passion of Christ. The Chapel of the Meeting Pass precisely represents one of these important steps.

Architectural Style

The chapel's architecture belongs to the Rococo style, characteristic of the 18th century. This style is evident in the construction's details and forms, giving it a particular and elegant appearance.

The set of seven chapels in Ovar, including this one, is recognized as a truly unique architectural and artistic record in Portugal, standing out for its homogeneity and the cultural value it represents.

Symbolic Meaning

As the name suggests, the Chapel of the Meeting Pass symbolizes the moment when, according to tradition, Christ meets His Mother on the way to Calvary. It is one of the points of reflection within the Stations of the Cross (Via Sacra) journey.

Visiting the chapel allows for a connection to this particular meaning, understanding its function within the religious narrative that motivated the construction of this heritage complex.

Recognized Heritage

The cultural and historical importance of the Chapel of the Meeting Pass and the other Chapels of the Stations of Ovar has been officially recognized. Since 1949, this complex has been classified as a Property of Public Interest.

This recognition underscores the exceptional value of this heritage for the history of art and architecture in Portugal, ensuring its protection and preservation.

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