Souls of the Quay

Category: Religious Architecture > Wayside Shrine / Niche

District: Braga > Esposende > Fão > Alminhas do Cais

Location

The "Alminhas do Cais" (Shrine of the Souls of the Quay) are located in the town of Fão, in the municipality of Esposende, at a prominent point that marks the historical connection of the village to the Cávado River. Its denomination "do Cais" (of the Quay) precisely refers to its location, once near one of the ancient river crossings, known as the "Cais das Alminhas" (Quay of the Souls). Its presence in Fão's public space makes them easily identifiable and integrated into the local environment.

History and Tradition

Dating back to the 18th century, the Alminhas do Cais are a testament to popular devotion and collective memory. Their construction is intimately linked to a local tradition that harks back to a tragic episode: legend tells that a group of people, in a diligence, attempted to cross the Cávado River at a ford, during a period of strong currents, resulting in the death of all passengers, with the exception of the coachman and his assistant. Truth or myth, this story confers profound meaning to the place, serving as a point of reflection on the dangers and challenges of life, and the custom of praying for the souls of those who departed unexpectedly.

Architectural and Symbolic Details

This architectural ensemble, of remarkable beauty, is composed of a porch and its central niche. The porch is covered by a roof and has its interior clad in wood, being supported by two cylindrical columns. These columns, resting on rectangular plinths, terminate in Doric-type capitals, adorned with delicate vegetal motifs. The niche, in turn, rises on a salient and molded base, culminating in a round arch decorated with a flower-shaped keystone, and surmounted by a counter-curved arch that enhances the entire structure.

Inside the niche, a painted wooden altarpiece is the focus of attention, featuring central religious figures such as the Crucified Christ, Our Lady, and Saint Anthony. Further below, in a distinct panel, there is a relief representing the Souls in Purgatory, framed by flames of fire. This visual element reinforces the monument's purpose, inviting contemplation and remembrance of those who are no longer among us.

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