Sanctuary of Saint Mary Magdalene of Falperra / Chapel of Saint Mary Magdalene

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > Falperra

Location

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria Madalena of Falperra is located in the Falperra area, in the municipality of Braga. Rising at a high elevation, this site offers a serene environment and a strong connection to the surrounding forest landscape, providing a tranquil space integrated into nature.

Architecture and Style

The Chapel of Santa Maria Madalena of Falperra is a landmark of Minho's religious architecture, exemplarily representing the Baroque-Rococo style. Its façade, frequently associated with the architect André Soares, is one of its most notable features, displaying decorative richness achieved through exuberant granite work, with undulating forms and details that make it a piece of great expressiveness. Inside the temple, the Rococo taste extends, especially visible in the altarpieces that adorn the space, revealing the characteristic ornamental profusion of the era.

Heritage and History

The history of the Falperra Sanctuary has its roots in a hermitage dedicated to Santa Maria Madalena, already referenced in the 16th century. The complex we know today developed significantly in the 18th century, a period when it acquired much of its current appearance, with the influence of André Soares' design and the patronage of important figures of the time. This ensemble of high historical and cultural value is classified as a National Monument, recognizing its importance in Portuguese built heritage.

Elements of the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria Madalena of Falperra is a harmonious complex that extends beyond the main chapel, establishing a dialogue between the built elements and the natural surroundings. Access to the temple is gained via a beautiful granite staircase that leads to the main building, incorporating a statue of Santa Maria Madalena at its center and two small twin fountains with shell-shaped basins, all bearing a Rococo imprint. At the beginning of the path, stands out the Chapel of Santa Maria Madalena, "the penitent", a small quadrangular structure popularly known as "Niche", and a stone cross dated 1775, which mark the entrance to a tree-lined avenue preceding the main chapel.

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