Chapel of Our Lady of the Martyrs

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Évora > Estremoz > Estremoz > Mártires

Location

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Mártires is located in the Mártires area, on the outskirts of Estremoz. It is situated on a gently sloping hillside, in a more rural and tranquil setting, which lends the place a serene atmosphere, inviting contemplation. This position, somewhat removed from the urban center, points to its historical function of supporting pilgrims and travelers.

Deep Historical Roots

The history of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Mártires dates back to the 14th century, with its construction beginning in 1371, by order of King Ferdinand I, and completed by Nuno Álvares Pereira, then Lord of Estremoz. Tradition suggests that its construction was in memory of the soldiers who fought against Castilian forces, giving it remarkable symbolic and patriotic value. It is believed that, before the chapel, a Christian basilica dating from the late Roman period existed on this site, indicating a continuity of worship and human presence throughout the centuries. In the past, this hermitage was linked to a hostel and a hospital, protected by King Manuel I, playing an important role in welcoming and aiding people. Since 1579, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Mártires has been the property of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Estremoz, and in 1922, it was classified as a National Monument, recognizing its patrimonial value.

A Journey Through Architectural Styles

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Mártires is an architectural testimony to various eras, where Gothic, Manueline, and Joanine Rococo styles intersect. From the Gothic period, the most distinctive element is its chancel, with a polygonal plan and buttresses, recognized for its formal correctness and the influence of the first campaign of the Batalha Monastery. Inside, visitors discover a harmonious transition of styles. The choir loft, made of marble, is a beautiful example of the Manueline style, with its depressed arch decorated with elements such as pendants and intertwined columns. The Joanine Rococo, characteristic of the reign of King John V, is manifested in the blue and white tile panels that cover the interior, illustrating episodes from the lives of the Virgin Mary and Christ. The complex, although modified over the centuries, including the alteration of the facade in the 17th century and successive restorations, such as that of the Baroque cruzeiro in the churchyard in 1959, maintains its charm and richness, built with the fine marble stonework of the region.

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