Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Aveiro > Santa Maria da Feira > Argoncilhe
Situated in the locality of Argoncilhe, in the municipality of Santa Maria da Feira, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Neves is located in an area that takes advantage of its elevation. The building stands on an artificial platform, supported by a wall, creating a small front churchyard.
Access to the churchyard is via a staircase. The place offers a more secluded atmosphere, surrounded by some residential houses and cultivated areas, providing a sense of tranquility.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Neves has its roots in the late 18th century. It is known that in 1794 and 1795, the necessary licenses were granted, by both the crown and the church, to build on this site.
The date of 1795 is visibly inscribed above the main door, possibly marking the year its construction began. The temple was formally blessed in 1797. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the chapel underwent alterations, including the enlargement of the chancel and the addition of the high choir, adapting to the community's needs.
With a design reminiscent of the late Baroque period, the chapel features a simple rectangular structure, composed of the nave and the chancel, with an annex attached laterally. The walls are plastered and painted white, contrasting with the main facade.
This facade, facing south, is distinctive for its partial cladding in blue and white patterned tile, outlined by a colored border. The upper part of the main facade ends in a cutout top with lateral volutes. The entrance portal has a straight lintel and is topped by an oculus. Outside, the lateral staircase leading to the high choir and the small bell tower, the latter with a perfect arch, also stands out.
The interior of the chapel reveals a welcoming space. The walls, painted white, display a high wainscot covered in patterned tile, similar to that used on the exterior. The ceilings are notable: the nave's is faceted wood, while the chancel's is coffered.
Artistic elements mark the space. The triumphal arch separating the nave from the main altar features late Baroque wall paintings simulating marble. The wood carving, painted white and gold, is a highlight of the decoration, present in the main altarpiece, on the altar table, and on the valances above the openings, showing remarkable carving quality. Elements such as the pulpit, on the left side, with its stone basin, and the granite holy water fonts next to the doors complete the visiting experience.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.0174169,-8.5479438
Coordinates DMS: 41°01'2.7"N 08°32'52.6"W
Weather Argoncilhe
On-duty Pharmacy Argoncilhe
