Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Castle

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Beja > Aljustrel > Aljustrel > Aljustrel e Rio de Moinhos

Location

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Castelo stands atop a hill in Aljustrel, offering a wide panorama over the village and the surrounding landscape. The main access is via a staircase that starts from the base of the hill, leading visitors to the hermitage's churchyard.

At the top of the staircase, before reaching the sanctuary, there is an arch incorporating a small bell tower with a bell. This elevated point also serves as a natural viewpoint, providing unobstructed views.

Origins and Legend

The history of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Castelo dates back to ancient times; it is believed that its construction significantly predates the 16th century. Popular tradition associates its construction with D. Paio Peres Correia and a striking legend.

The legend tells that the hermitage was supposed to be built on a slightly different spot on the hill, so as to leave out a rock where the Virgin Mary had appeared. However, the stonemasons' work mysteriously collapsed during the night. The construction could only be completed without collapses when they decided to build the temple directly on the rock itself. It is also said that, by putting an ear to this rock, which is visible inside the sanctuary, one can hear the sound of the sea, and that its removal would cause a great flood in the village.

Art and Architecture

The sanctuary building, although a place of pilgrimage and of popular design, presents interesting architectural and decorative elements. The structure is composed of a main nave and a chancel.

Inside the nave, the walls are covered with polychrome 17th-century azulejos (tiles). These panels, notable for their preservation and "maçarocas" (ear of corn) pattern, create a visual effect similar to tapestries. The chancel houses a retable with baroque influences and carved ornaments, where the image of the patron saint is located.

Popular Devotion

Devotion to Nossa Senhora do Castelo is deeply rooted in the community of Aljustrel and neighboring municipalities. Throughout the centuries, this sanctuary has been a center of faith and requests for protection.

A visible testament to this strong connection are the numerous ex-votos found inside the hermitage. Photographs, jewelry, and other objects offered by the faithful demonstrate gratitude for graces received or pleas for help. Faith in the saint is particularly manifested during the annual festivities, which include a solemn procession where the image of Nossa Senhora is carried through the village, whose streets are traditionally decorated with antique quilts.

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