Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel
District: Beja > Castro Verde > São Marcos da Ataboeira > Salto
Situated atop Monte do Salto, in the parish of São Marcos da Ataboeira, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Aracelis stands as a landmark in the Castro Verde landscape. This elevated point offers a vast panorama over the Alentejo peneplain, providing a unique view of the region's immensity. Its position, near the border with the municipality of Mértola, gives it a privileged perspective of the territory, standing out as a reference point in the small mountain range also known as Aracelis.
The chapel's name, Aracelis, originates from the Latin expression ara coeli, meaning "altar of the sky." This designation reflects its elevated location and devotion to Our Lady, creating a symbolic link between the temple and the firmament. It is believed that the site where the chapel now stands was, in earlier times, used as a watchtower during the Roman and Muslim periods. From here, an ancient land route connecting important centers such as Myrtilis (Mértola) and Vipasca (Aljustrel) was controlled, underscoring the historical relevance of this point in the landscape.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Aracelis presents itself as a modest-sized building with a simple appearance and a rectangular plan. Its facade is marked by a round arch portal, inviting entry. On the right side, there is an annex body, and on the left side, a discreet bell tower. Inside, the single nave is covered by a barrel vault, and fragments of mural paintings can be observed in the chancel arch, partially preserved by the main altar. This altar, probably dating from the 17th century, features an altarpiece decorated with volutes that evoke a popular aesthetic, housing the revered image of the Virgin. The complex is surrounded by a spacious churchyard, accessible via a path with stairs and landings, finished by two round arch porticos with Baroque-inspired elements.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Aracelis remains one of the most important Marian sanctuaries in Alentejo, testifying to a strong and continuous devotion. The site hosts a large annual pilgrimage, traditionally held in late August. One of the highlights of this event is the procession of the Virgin's image around the hill, a rite which, according to popular belief, aims to ensure a good agricultural year. The patron saint's festivals are celebrated in September, bringing together believers and pilgrims. The chapel is a central point in the region's popular faith, and oral tradition states that from it, six other hermitages dedicated to Our Lady can be seen, scattered across Alentejo and Algarve, consolidating its centrality in the local religious imagination.
The surroundings of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Aracelis are characterized by the pseudo-steppic cereal landscape, a vast and unique ecosystem of Lower Alentejo. This natural environment is of particular interest for wildlife observation, being a privileged habitat for various bird species. Rare birds such as the great bustard and the little bustard can be sighted, and during the winter months, the arrival of cranes provides a distinct natural spectacle. The presence of these birds and the vastness of the horizon connect the experience of visiting the chapel to a deep immersion in Alentejo nature.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.7459549, -7.8867548285714
Coordinates DMS: 37°44'45.4"N 07°53'12.3"W
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