Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Castelo Branco > Covilhã > Orjais
This place is located in the village of Orjais, in the municipality of Covilhã. It is situated in an elevated position, amidst a mountainous landscape, taking advantage of the natural potential of its geographical setting. Its somewhat isolated location contributes to creating a unique atmosphere and offers wide and remarkable views over the surrounding territory.
The site of Nossa Senhora das Cabeças has roots that delve deep into history. Archaeological research points to the existence of an important Roman temple built precisely on this site. This building was likely erected during the Roman period, possibly during the time of the Flavian emperors (between 69 and 96 AD), on a site where there were already traces of occupation and, perhaps, earlier sacred practices. It was a significant point of worship in the region for the peoples who inhabited it in Antiquity.
The original Roman temple stood out for its architecture and size, being described as 'monumental'. It was designed to integrate with and take advantage of the terrain's morphology, rising above one of the characteristic granite outcrops of the area. Although the currently visible structure is different, archaeological studies have made it possible to form an idea of what the plan and appearance of this sanctuary would have been like in Antiquity, revealing a particular architectural configuration adapted to the site.
Long before assuming its current designation, this place was already a point of reference with a strong sacred character for the ancient inhabitants of the region. The choice of this elevated site with vast visibility does not seem accidental, possibly combining religious importance with the ability to dominate the surrounding landscape. The deities worshipped here would have been those of the peoples who occupied this territory in the Roman era, perhaps including pre-existing local deities and Roman gods.
One of the most striking aspects of visiting Nossa Senhora das Cabeças is the breadth of the panoramic view one can enjoy. The strategic position of the site allowed, in Antiquity, extensive visual control, but today it offers visitors the opportunity to contemplate the natural beauty and vastness of the region. From here, one's gaze can wander for many kilometers, encompassing mountains, valleys, and the rural landscape that characterizes this area of the Covilhã municipality, punctuated by the granite outcrops that are distinctive elements of the territory.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.3404603,-7.4171502
Coordinates DMS: 40°20'25.7"N 07°25'1.7"W
Weather Orjais
On-duty Pharmacy Orjais
