Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Bragança > Torre de Moncorvo > Torre de Moncorvo > União das Freguesias de Torre de Moncorvo, Vilariça e Adeganha
This historical complex is located in the urban area of Torre de Moncorvo. It is situated on a somewhat inclined street, paved with granite cobblestones, which is part of the main thoroughfares of the town. It is flanked by other residential buildings that integrate into the urban fabric.
The history of this place dates back to the year 1491, when it was established as a complex comprising the Chapel of the Holy Spirit (Capela do Espírito Santo) and a hospital. This foundation aimed to provide assistance, particularly to poor travelers passing through, offering them a place to spend the night and basic care.
The building features a whitewashed facade with granite stonework details. Noteworthy are the cornerstones in the form of pilasters and the pyramidal finials at the top. The main facade of the chapel, facing west, includes an entrance portal with an elaborate double molding, decorated with geometric and ovoid elements, although some are worn by time. Above the portal, one can observe the national coat of arms, an armillary sphere, and the cross of the Order of Christ. A triangular pediment, interrupted on the left by a simple bell tower, crowns the structure, displaying an image of Saint Martin of Tours in the tympanum. In the area of the former hospital, annexed to the chapel, the two-story facade presents a more sober appearance, with simple doors and windows framed in stonework.
Upon entering the chapel, visitors find a unique space with white walls and a wooden wainscot. The ceiling features a false barrel vault structure. On the side wall, a large granite slab contains an inscription detailing the obligations and operation of the old hospital in 1726, providing an interesting insight into its historical management. The most notable element is undoubtedly the gilded carved altarpiece, dating from the 18th century, in the national style. This altarpiece fills the central space, with twisted columns richly decorated with vines and 'putti' figures, surmounted by also carved arches. In the center, an arched niche, painted blue, houses an exhibition throne with several steps, and an opening in the ceiling (oculus) allows natural light to enter, illuminating this focal point.
The building adjacent to the chapel functioned for centuries as the Misericórdia hospital, fulfilling its mission of charity. Historical documents, perpetuated in inscriptions on the site itself, attest to its social importance, detailing the provisions and care offered to the needy and pilgrims passing through Torre de Moncorvo. Although the area of the former hospital is currently unoccupied, its structure remains as a physical testament to the assistance role played by this institution throughout its long history.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.1743104,-7.0517119
Coordinates DMS: 41°10'27.5"N 07°03'6.2"W
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