Chapel of Agony or of the Garden

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > Tenões

Location

The Chapel of Agony, also known as the Chapel of the Garden, is the second chapel on the itinerary of the Via Sacra of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, located in the parish of Nogueiró e Tenões, municipality of Braga. It is situated near the main portico, to the right of those ascending the first flights of the staircase. Surrounded by vegetation and integrated into the serene environment of the sanctuary, it marks the transition between the contemplation of the Last Supper and the interior suffering that precedes the Passion of Christ.

Origins and Architecture

Erected during the archbishopric of D. Rodrigo de Moura Teles, between the early and mid-18th century, this chapel retains its square plan and the simple style of the first constructions in the complex. The granite facade is crowned by the episcopal coat of arms and a Latin inscription, bearing witness to the continuity of the spiritual program initiated in the previous chapel. The interior underwent a significant reconstruction in 1788, but maintained its essential structure and original symbolism.

Sculptural Representation

Inside, the scene depicted evokes the episode of the Garden of Olives, also known as the Garden of Gethsemane. Christ is shown in intense prayer, with arms raised and an expression of anguish, in a moment of solitude and spiritual surrender. In the distance, Peter, James, and John are found asleep, unable to keep watch as they were asked. An Angel appears as a divine messenger, holding the Cross and the Chalice of the Passion, symbols of the acceptance of redemptive suffering. The sculptural ensemble expresses with realism and sensitivity the tension between human fragility and divine obedience.

Inscription and Meaning

Above the portal, the inscription is engraved: “FACTUS IN AGONIA PROLIXIUS ORABAT”, with reference to the Gospel of Luke (22:43). The translation “Being in agony, he prayed more earnestly” summarizes the spiritual meaning of the chapel: perseverance in prayer even in moments of profound affliction. The scene, accompanied by the Archangel Saint Michael and the sleeping disciples, symbolizes the acceptance of destiny and the beginning of the path to Calvary. The space invites reflection on faith, courage, and the ability to remain firm in the face of adversity.

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