Chapel of Darkness

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > Tenões

Location

The Chapel of Darkness is the fourth chapel on the Via Sacra route of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, located in the parish of Tenões, municipality of Braga. Set within a serene forest environment, it is surrounded by tall trees and dense vegetation, lending it an atmosphere of contemplation and mystery. The contrast between the dark granite of the construction and the intense green of the landscape creates a visually striking and symbolic scene.

Access is via stone staircases, which lead to the small octagonal chapel, strategically positioned as a point of pause and contemplation along the stairway. The natural surroundings and the silence of the place invite meditation on Christ's suffering and resignation.

Origin and Meaning

This chapel represents the moment when Christ is outraged and mistreated after being questioned by the priests, following his arrest. The interior image, by sculptor Evangelista Vieira, depicts Jesus seated on a stone, with his wrists bound and his eyes blindfolded. The serene expression of the figure contrasts with the theme of humiliation and violence, conveying a sense of calm and spiritual strength in the face of injustice.

Above the main door is the Latin inscription “TUNC EXPUERUNT IN FACIEM EJUS… ALII AUTEM PALMAS IN FACIEM EJUS DEDERUNT”, which means “Then some spat in his face, and others struck him with their hands”. This quote from the Gospel of Matthew (26:67) reinforces the sense of dishonor and suffering that gives the chapel its name.

Architecture and Surroundings

With an octagonal floor plan, the chapel is built of granite and features sober and balanced lines. The arched upper section and the moss-covered pyramidal roof blend harmoniously with the natural setting. The barred openings and the dark wooden door accentuate the atmosphere of enclosure and introspection.

Nearby is the Fountain of Mars, adorned with symbolic elements of war: a pistol, a spear, and a saber, evoking human violence and the contrast between conflict and Christ's serenity. This dialogue between strength and suffering gives the ensemble a profound spiritual and artistic value.

Atmosphere and Experience of the Place

The Chapel of Darkness is a space for silent reflection. The play of light and shadow filtering through the trees creates an almost theatrical atmosphere, where nature seems to participate in the drama of the scene. The gentle sound of nearby water and the murmur of the wind in the leaves reinforce the sense of recollection and communion with the environment.

More than just a point of passage, this site embodies the essence of the Via Sacra of Bom Jesus, a path of faith, pain, and hope, where visitors are invited to pause and contemplate the mystery of suffering with serenity and respect.

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