Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel
District: Beja > Mértola > Alcaria Ruiva > Vale de Açor de Cima
The Chapel of Our Lady of Fátima is nestled in the tranquility of the Alentejo countryside, specifically in the locality of Alcaria Ruiva, part of the municipality of Mértola, in the district of Beja. It is situated in Vale de Açor de Cima, a setting that lends the place an atmosphere of serenity and isolation. Surrounded by the vast rural landscape that characterizes this region of Alentejo, the chapel benefits from a scenery punctuated by gentle undulations and the typical cork oak woodland vegetation, inviting contemplation and recollection.
Dedicated to Our Lady of Fátima, this chapel is a focal point of faith and devotion for the local community and for visitors seeking a space of spiritual quietude. As a building of religious architecture, its existence reflects the deep connection of the Portuguese people to the Virgin Mary and the message of Fátima, representing an important symbolic link in the social and cultural fabric of the region. It is a place that, by its very nature, invites reflection and the pursuit of a moment of inner peace.
Typically, rural Alentejo chapels, like this one, are characterized by their simplicity and perfect integration into the surrounding landscape. It is expected to feature modest architecture, with whitewashed walls, a common practice in the region that helps reflect the sun's heat and keep the interior cool. The roof will likely be of red tiles, contrasting softly with the white of the walls and the blue of the Alentejo sky. Its facade, though unpretentious, expresses the essence of popular faith, revealing a beauty that lies in its sobriety and its primary function as a place of worship.
The natural surroundings of the Chapel of Our Lady of Fátima are one of its greatest attractions. Far from the hustle and bustle of large cities, the place offers an immersive experience in the genuineness of Alentejo. The silence, punctuated only by the sounds of nature, and the vastness of the horizon, which stretches across plains and distant hills, provide a unique environment for those seeking a refuge of peace. This natural setting amplifies the atmosphere of spirituality and invites a pause, allowing visitors to appreciate the simple and profound beauty of the Alentejo countryside.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.818666935605584, -7.859330009764838
Coordinates DMS: 37°49'7.2"N 07°51'33.6"W
On-duty Pharmacy Alcaria Ruiva
