Chapel of Saint Mary of the Monastery

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Oliveira do Hospital > Avô > Paraíso

Location

The Chapel of Santa Maria do Mosteiro is located in an area of great tranquility, known as Paraíso, in the locality of Avô, in the municipality of Oliveira do Hospital. Situated on the left bank of the Alva river, the chapel is set in a predominantly rural and isolated environment, about two kilometers from the center of the parish of Avô. This position provides a serene setting, where the surrounding nature is evident.

A Legacy in Time

The history of the Chapel of Santa Maria do Mosteiro, also known as the Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Neves, dates back to ancient times. As early as 1368, the chapel was a known presence in the region, under the designation of Capela do Mosteiro. Over the centuries, the building underwent transformations. In the 16th century, it underwent a significant reconstruction that shaped part of its current appearance. Subsequently, in the 19th century, interventions were carried out that altered it, namely through the increase of its height and the opening of new openings, seeking to imitate older architectural forms.

Architecture and Essence

This small chapel stands out for its religious architecture of simple design, but with elements of interest. It is composed of a nave and a chancel, both of square format, which articulate harmoniously. The main facade and one of the sides are marked by doors in broken arch, or ogival, a style that is repeated in the arch separating the nave from the chancel. Its structure is supported by robust walls, testifying to the construction technique of the time. Since its origin, the chapel has maintained its religious vocation, still serving today as a place of worship.

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