Chapel of Saint Gerard

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Braga > Braga > Braga

Location

The Chapel of São Geraldo is located in the center of Braga, integrated into the Braga Cathedral complex. It is situated in the Sé urban area, a historic and central district that allows for easy exploration on foot, surrounded by a vibrant urban environment.

A Historical and Spiritual Legacy

This chapel has a history dating back to the beginnings of Braga's Christianity. It was originally built under the invocation of Saint Nicholas by Geraldo de Moissac, who later became Saint Geraldo, the patron saint of Braga. His mortal remains are interred in the chapel's main altarpiece, making it a place of profound veneration and historical significance.

The formal dedication of the chapel to Saint Geraldo took place between 1418 and 1467, at the initiative of Archbishop D. Fernando da Guerra. Over the centuries, the space underwent transformations, the most notable being the intervention of Archbishop D. Rodrigo de Moura Teles, in the late 17th century. It was he who enriched it with the Baroque aesthetic that characterizes it today.

Art and Tradition

The Chapel of São Geraldo is an example of the artistic richness that developed in Braga. Its interior displays remarkable Baroque carving, with gilded details that create an atmosphere of great splendor. The walls are adorned with tiles, attributed to the painter António de Oliveira Bernardes, and the ceiling features paintings that contribute to the overall beauty.

On the chapel floor lies the tomb of Archbishop D. Rodrigo de Moura Teles, who greatly contributed to its Baroque remodeling. Annually, on December 5th, the chapel hosts a peculiar tradition: the altar is decorated with fresh fruit, in allusion to the "Miracle of the Fruit." This legend tells that Saint Geraldo, sick and desiring fruit during a harsh winter, miraculously saw the trees where he resided produce the desired fruits.

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