Chapel of Agony or of the Garden

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Braga > Braga > Senhora da Rocha > Bom Jesus

Location

The Chapel of Agony or of the Garden is located within the vast complex of Bom Jesus do Monte, in the area of Senhora da Rocha, municipality of Braga. It is a square-plan chapel, easily identifiable near the main portico area of the sanctuary, inviting introspection before continuing to explore the site.

Origins and Architectural Features

This chapel dates back to the period of Archbishop D. Rodrigo de Moura Teles, who spearheaded much of the construction we admire today at Bom Jesus. It stands out as one of the few that preserves its original design, maintaining its square shape and a coat of arms on its facade. The interior, which houses the sculptural representations, underwent a significant reconstruction in the year 1788, preserving its symbolic purpose throughout the centuries.

The Sculptural Representation

Inside the Chapel of Agony, a striking scene can be observed, inspired by the biblical episode of the Garden of Gethsemane. The sculptural ensemble features five central figures: the figure of Christ, enveloped in his agony, with open arms and an expression of profound anguish; an Angel, appearing as a messenger of comfort, holding the Cross and the Chalice; and the three apostles, Peter, James, and John, asleep beside the Savior, despite his plea for them to keep watch. This representation aims to capture the dimension of Christ's suffering and humanity.

An Eternal Message

On the upper part of the chapel's facade, visible to those approaching, a Latin inscription is engraved in granite: "FACTUS IN AGONIA PROLIXIUS ORABAT". This phrase freely translates to "Being in agony, Jesus prayed more earnestly," underscoring the central theme of the chapel. The presence of the angel, with the symbols of the Passion, complements the narrative, functioning as an element of purification and protection. The chapel's message invites reflection on faith and resilience in the face of adversity.

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