Chapel of Saint Peter of Vira-a-Corça

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Castelo Branco > Idanha-a-Nova > Carroqueiro > São Pedro de Vir-a-Corça

Location

The Chapel of São Pedro de Vira-a-Corça is located in a rural and scenic area, near the village of Carroqueiro, in the municipality of Idanha-a-Nova, district of Castelo Branco.

It stands isolated on the southwestern slope of the hill where the historic village of Monsanto rises. Surrounded by a wooded area and large granite boulders, the chapel enjoys a tranquil setting, integrated with the surrounding nature.

A Testament to Rural Romanesque

This chapel is a testament to the Romanesque architecture in the region, possibly dating from the 12th or 13th centuries. It is built of granite, with a design that reveals the characteristic simplicity of this period.

The structure has a longitudinal plan, consisting of a single nave. On the main façade, a round-arched portal and a simple oculus stand out, allowing natural light into the interior space.

History and Tradition

Since ancient times, the site where the chapel stands has been important. It is believed to have initially been a hermitage.

Over time, the chapel became a centre for pilgrimage and a meeting point for holding fairs, an activity that was formally recognized by a charter from King Dinis in 1308. The chapel, which had fallen into ruin, was rebuilt in its current form between 1979 and 1983.

The Environment and Symbolism

The area surrounding the chapel has elements that add depth and interest to a visit. Next to the walls, rock-cut tombs can be seen, remains of a necropolis that existed on the site even before the chapel was built.

The enormous granite boulders that shape the surrounding landscape, some with cavities that raise questions about their ancient uses, contribute to the site's special atmosphere. The very origin of the name "Vira-a-Corça" is linked to an old popular legend involving a hermit and a doe, giving a symbolic and almost legendary character to this place.

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