Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Braga > Amares > Bouro (Santa Maria) > Abadia
The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Abadia is situated on a verdant hillside in Santa Maria do Bouro, municipality of Amares. It is set in a tranquil and isolated natural environment, surrounded by mountains that are part of the Gerês Mountain Range. The surroundings are characterized by dense vegetation and the presence of the Nava River to the south, known for its small waterfalls.
An avenue lined with large plane trees leads to the esplanade in front of the church, creating a scenic entrance to the complex. This natural setting contributes to the atmosphere of contemplation and peace that many seek when visiting the site.
This Marian sanctuary is considered one of the oldest in Portugal, with traditions dating back to the 7th or 8th centuries, although the current structure is later. Legend has it that the image of the Virgin Mary, believed to be lost, was found in a nearby grotto thanks to a mysterious light. This discovery gave rise to a strong cult at the site.
Initially, there would have been a hermitage, later connected to the Benedictine Order, which would have looked after the sanctuary throughout the centuries. The complex we see today was built and expanded mainly between the 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting the growing importance of the site as a center of devotion. The ensemble of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Abadia has been classified as an Ensemble of Public Interest since 2016, recognizing its historical and cultural value.
The main access to the sanctuary is via an imposing ramp, traditionally known as "rebentaço". Along this ascent, there are eight chapels, each alluding to important moments in the life of the Virgin Mary. Their late-Baroque architecture, with carved frames and shaped openings, enriches the path to the main square.
In the esplanade, before reaching the church, visitors can observe elements such as the calvary, buildings that once served as support for pilgrims (such as the House of Offerings and the old Barracks), and fountains. The Grotto of the Apparition, associated with the legend of the image's discovery, is another point of interest along the route, currently housing a replica of the Virgin.
The central church, built in the 18th century, features a remarkable facade with two bell towers and a balcony decorated with tiles. The interior is divided into three naves, separated by arcades supported by columns. Noteworthy are the 17th-century tile panels and the rich gilded woodcarving decoration.
The well-preserved side altars display elaborate decorations. The main altar impresses with its size and the profusion of gilded woodcarving that frames the images. It is also possible to admire an old pipe organ, dating from the late 18th century, which contributes to the solemn atmosphere of the temple.
In one of the old buildings located in the esplanade, you will find the Museum of Sacred Art and Ethnography. This space houses a collection that includes various ex-votos, many of them related to the devotion of fishermen from Póvoa de Varzim to Nossa Senhora da Abadia. The museum offers a glimpse into the history and traditions associated with the sanctuary over time.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.6753439,-8.2581939
Coordinates DMS: 41°40'31.2"N 08°15'29.5"W
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