Our Lady of Amparo Hermitage

Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage

District: Beja > Mértola > Moreanes > Monte do Roncão

Location

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Amparo is located on Monte do Roncão, in the locality of Moreanes, municipality of Mértola. Situated in an area that, due to its elevation, provides a perspective of the surrounding Alentejo landscape, the chapel is set in an environment that invites tranquility and contemplation of the territory.

Origin and Artistic Richness

The original construction of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Amparo dates back to the medieval period. Over the centuries, the temple underwent interventions and reconstructions, which gave it a Baroque style, typical of 18th-century Alentejo temples. Inside, one can observe a collection of monochrome blue and white tilework, manufactured in Lisbon, illustrating themes of Marian devotion. Also noteworthy is the gilded carved altarpiece of the main chapel, a significant piece which, together with a sacred collection dating from the 17th century, represents a set of unique artistic value in this region.

The Nature of the Chapel

Chapels (ermidas) are, by nature, smaller Christian places of worship, often built in secluded places or at higher points. This symbolic location, in popular belief, signified a greater proximity to the divine. The Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Amparo, dedicated to the Virgin, reflects this role. Although not used daily, these chapels came alive during festive periods of religious celebration, serving as meeting points and places of devotion for the small communities around them, marking important moments of their faith and tradition.

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