Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Castelo Branco > Sertã > Pedrógão Pequeno

Location and Panoramic View

, Situated on a hill near the village of Pedrógão Pequeno, in the Municipality of Sertã.

, Offers stunning views of the Lousã, Sicó, and, on clear days, Serra da Estrela mountain ranges.

, Below the chapel lies the impressive Cabril dam, ideal for nautical activities.

History and Construction

, Has an ancient history and is believed to have been built on the remains of an ancient pre-Lusitanian castro (fortified settlement).

, The current building was erected in 1906 by order of the Conceição e Silva family.

Simple Architecture

, The chapel consists of a single nave, with a choir above the main entrance.

, Contains three altars dedicated to Saint George, Saint Francis of Assisi, and Our Lady of Confidence.

, The chapel's facade is impressive, despite its architectural simplicity.

Ceiling Paintings

, On the ceiling, there is a remarkable painting of a split coat of arms, with the old arms of Pedrógão Pequeno on one side and the monogram "A" and "M" of Ave Maria on the other.

, Two paintings depict guardian angels.

Religious Celebrations

, The chapel does not hold regular masses, but it is used for festive occasions, weddings, and baptisms.

Treasure of the Image

, The image of Our Lady of Confidence does not have great monetary value, but it holds a vast treasure, including jewels and luxurious costumes adorned with gold, as well as crowns and other objects of devotion.

Annual Festivals

, The festivals take place on the 7th, 8th, and 9th of September and are known for the magnificent fireworks display and the impressive processions, which attract hundreds of faithful.

, Considered one of the main pilgrimages in the central region of Portugal.

Development Association

, A new development association manages all the properties on the hill, including the fire house, stages, and assistance house, with the aim of promoting tourism in the area.

Archaeology

, Recent archaeological excavations have revealed structures of the ancient pre-Lusitanian castro.

, Unfortunately, these structures are gradually being erased by the action of time.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capela_de_Nossa_Senhora_da_Confiança

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