Chapel of Santo Cristo

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Bragança > Vimioso > Caçarelhos

Location:

Situated in the locality of Caçarelhos, municipality of Vimioso, the Chapel of Santo Cristo is located at the entrance of the village, in a peaceful square. This space, slightly elevated and paved with granite cobblestones, is flanked by trees, creating a serene environment. In front of the chapel, a stone calvary cross adds an element of interest and invites contemplation of its rural setting.

Origins and History:

The Chapel of Santo Cristo, although with older roots, as mentioned in documents from 1758, was extensively rebuilt in 1776. This work was spearheaded by Abbot Jerónimo de Moraes Castro, with the generous support of the devotees of Saint Bartholomew. This historical fact is engraved in a visible inscription above the main portal, testifying to the community's dedication to its construction.

Architectural Details:

The chapel displays Baroque religious architecture, with a main facade that stands out for the richness of its details. We find a depressed arch portal, flanked by elements reminiscent of flora, surmounted by a serpentine pediment and a cartouche with inscriptions, flanked by two oculi. The front is crowned by a gable and a simple bell-tower. Inside, we find white walls, flagstone flooring, and a false barrel vault ceiling.

Particularly notable are its pulpit, with an ebony balustrade, and the majestic chancel. Here, the gilded and polychrome carved altarpiece, in Rococo style, impresses with its elaboration, featuring columns and shell motifs that frame a tribune. In the center, a highly expressive image of the Crucified Christ stands out. In the sacristy, an elegantly designed carved chest complements the artistic beauty of the ensemble.

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