Chapel of Saint Sebastian

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Alandroal > Alandroal > Nossa Senhora da Conceição

Location

The Chapel of São Sebastião is located in the heart of the town of Alandroal, within the urban area of Nossa Senhora da Conceição. The building stands isolated on elevated ground, dominating the surrounding space, notably Largo Major Roçadas. Its position offers a clear view of the chapel, which integrates into the town's fabric, inviting a visit to discover its history and particularities.

Memory and Foundation

The origins of this chapel are deep, likely dating back to the 16th century. Its construction was likely an initiative of the then Senate of Alandroal, which assumed its patronage. Over the centuries, the chapel witnessed several transformations; a significant rebuilding occurred in 1722, and the damage caused by the 1755 earthquake led to extensive renovation works. Its dedication to Saint Sebastian reflects an ancient tradition of invoking the saint as a protector against calamities.

Architectural and Artistic Details

The chapel features religious architecture with Baroque and Neoclassical elements, characterized by its simplicity and functionality. On the exterior, the sober façade stands out with a simple portal, a circular oculus, and the unique bell tower rising in the center. The compact volume conceals the richness of its interior.

Upon entering, visitors encounter a space with a single nave, chancel, and sacristy, all covered by barrel vaults. One of the most striking aspects is the mural paintings that cover the entirety of the walls and vaults. The lower part of the elevations displays simulated blue and yellow tiles, while the upper sections and vaults imitate stone, with a notable trompe l'oeil effect in the chancel. The main altar, of Neoclassical design, consists of three niches, with the central one glazed and the side ones adorned with columns and floral elements. Also noteworthy is an 18th-century pulpit with balusters, which contributes to the historical atmosphere of the place.

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