Sanctuary of Our Lady Help of Christians

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Aveiro > Anadia > Mogofores > Malaposta

Location

The Sanctuary of Our Lady Help of Christians is located in the town of Mogofores, part of the municipality of Anadia. It is situated in the Malaposta area, integrated into the Salesian Institute complex.

Origin and Purpose

The construction of this sanctuary took place between 1959 and 1963. The need arose because the original chapel of the Salesian Institute became insufficient for the community and for the liturgical activities held there.

The design of this temple was by architect João Antunes, aiming to create a more spacious area suitable for the context of the Salesian Institute in Mogofores.

Architecture and Distinctive Elements

On the exterior, the main facade stands out with an imposing statue of Our Lady Help of Christians at the top, measuring approximately four meters. This central figure is flanked by two stone angels, each approximately two meters high.

On the same facade, two mosaic panels depicting Saint John Bosco, a figure associated with youth and founder of the Salesian congregation, can be observed. These artistic elements complement the sobriety of the architecture.

One of the most visible features of the sanctuary is its bell tower. Standing approximately forty meters tall, it was designed as a separate structure from the main church. This tower houses eight bells and a clock, whose faces are oriented towards the four cardinal points.

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