Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Castelo Branco > Idanha-a-Nova > Idanha-a-Nova > Almortão
The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Almortão is located in a tranquil rural area, on the outskirts of Idanha-a-Nova. It is situated on a vast plain characteristic of the Beira Baixa region, midway between the village of Idanha-a-Nova and the historic Idanha-a-Velha. Its isolated position gives it an atmosphere of serenity, nestled within the surrounding rural landscape.
The foundation of this sanctuary is linked to an ancient legend. It is said that the image of the Virgin Mary appeared in a murtão, a large myrtle bush, at this very spot. Shepherds who found it took it to the church in the nearby locality of Monsanto. However, the image disappeared and was found again at the original site, next to the murtão. This event repeated itself. Interpreting this sign as the Virgin's wish, it was decided to build a chapel at the apparition site, giving rise to the devotion and the name Almortão.
The devotion to Nossa Senhora do Almortão has very deep roots. There are historical references to the site dating back to the 13th century, being mentioned in a 1229 document related to the boundaries of ancient Egitânia (present-day Idanha-a-Velha). It is believed that the worship in this area may be even older, perhaps predating the very foundation of Portugal and with possible links to traditions that precede the Christian presence. The current temple has an ancient foundation, although it has undergone several interventions over the centuries that modified its initial design.
The sanctuary features an architecture of simple and harmonious lines, characteristic of the region's hermitages. The exterior reflects this sobriety. Upon entering, visitors find elements of interest such as the 18th-century tile coverings that decorate the chancel and the altar. The exterior porch stands out with its three granite arches. Inside, a colorful stained-glass window above the altar captures attention, depicting the figure of Nossa Senhora do Almortão. A distinctive detail is the presence of adufes next to the altar, underscoring the sanctuary's strong connection to the region's musical traditions.
The Sanctuary of Almortão is a central place for the religious and cultural traditions of Beira Baixa. It is the setting for popular pilgrimages, attracting many visitors. The main pilgrimage, held annually fifteen days after Easter Sunday, is particularly well-attended. On these occasions, devotion is manifested in religious ceremonies and the traditional procession. One of the most notable and genuine aspects is the singing of quadras in honor of the Virgin, often accompanied by the playing of the adufes, an emblematic musical instrument of the region. This event highlights the strong link between faith, community, and local culture at this sanctuary.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.9081317,-7.1706132
Coordinates DMS: 39°54'29.3"N 07°10'14.2"W
Weather Idanha-a-Nova
On-duty Pharmacy Idanha-a-Nova
