Chapel of Our Lady of the Warning

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Bragança > Mirandela > Frechas > Vale da Sancha

Panoramic Location

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Aviso rises serenely atop a hill, an elevation that grants it a privileged setting in the rural area of Vale da Sancha, in Frechas, Mirandela municipality. Situated on the slopes of the Serra do Marmeleiro, its isolated position offers a wide and stunning view over the Tua river valley, encompassing the villages of Vale da Sancha and Frechas. This location is an invitation to contemplate the Trás-os-Montes landscape, characterized by its tranquility.

Access to the chapel is via a staircase leading to a rectangular churchyard, an artificial platform that isolates it from its surroundings. The sobriety of the exterior space, delimited by a simple railing, contrasts with the vastness of the unfolding horizon, providing an environment conducive to reflection.

Past and Tradition

The history of this place of worship dates back to ancient times, with indications of occupation since the Pre-Roman Era, evidenced by rock-carved basins. Popular tradition enriches these vestiges, associating the basins with curious legends, such as that of Our Lady washing the clothes of the Infant Jesus. Although the construction of the current chapel is conjectured to be from the 16th century, its relevance as a pilgrimage site is attested in ancient 18th-century documents, which refer to the influx of pilgrims from neighboring localities.

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Aviso, as we observe it today, is the result of a significant reconstruction carried out in the 1960s. This intervention restored the structure, which was in ruins, allowing for the preservation of architectural elements of the primitive chapel and ensuring the continuity of its religious and cultural legacy.

Architecture and Details

With vernacular architecture, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Aviso reveals a simplicity that emphasizes its integration into the landscape. Its main facade, facing west, features a perfect arch portal, framed by granite masonry, and is flanked by a small, clean-lined bell tower. A particularly expressive detail on the exterior is the polychrome tile panel, surmounted by a Latin cross, which illustrates a Guardian Angel leading two children, an element of great symbolism.

Inside, the nave and the chancel, although slightly narrower, feature polygonal profile ceilings of light blue painted wood, adorned with coffers and metal tie rods, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The granite altar completes the sacred space, while light-toned tiles, punctuated by golden stars, cover the end wall, serving as a backdrop to the image of the patron saint. The ensemble of elements, though modest, invites a careful and peaceful visit.

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