Chapel of Queen Saint Elizabeth

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Évora > Estremoz > Estremoz > Santo André

Location:

The Chapel of Queen Saint Isabel is located in the historic area of Estremoz, integrated into the monumental complex of the Alcáçova. It occupies a unique space in one of the corners of D. Dinis Square, protected between two turrets that are part of the original structure of the castle's western wing. This positioning gives it a secluded atmosphere and places it in the highest and most historically significant area of the town.

Historical Memory:

The chapel's origin dates back to the 17th century, more precisely to 1659. It was by order of Queen D. Luísa de Gusmão, widow of D. João IV, that an initial oratory was built here, in gratitude for the Portuguese victory in the Battle of the Lines of Elvas. Years later, in 1680, during the reign of D. Pedro II, the space was enlarged and underwent significant improvements. In 1698, despite the violent explosion of the castle's gunpowder magazine, the chapel suffered little damage, a fact that at the time was interpreted as a sign of protection from the Holy Queen.

Artistic Decoration:

The interior of the Chapel of Queen Saint Isabel is notable for its 18th-century decoration. The walls are adorned with tile panels illustrating significant episodes from the life of Queen Saint Isabel and the miracles attributed to her. The ceiling features a perspective painting depicting the Apotheosis of the Holy Queen, a theme showing her ascending to the heavens surrounded by divine figures.

Notable Elements:

Inside, several elements of particular interest stand out. The high choir, built of white marble, is an example of the artistic stonework of the period. In this choir, a Latin inscription dated 1808 can be observed, recording the gratitude of the population of Estremoz to Saint Isabel for her protection against the looting that occurred during the French Invasions. The main altar, in turn, reflects a transition of styles, featuring characteristics of both Baroque and Neoclassical. Behind the altar's tribuna, there is a small recess which, according to tradition, marks the place where Queen Saint Isabel is believed to have died.

The Legacy of the Holy Queen:

This chapel is a fundamental space for understanding the profound devotion to Queen Saint Isabel in Estremoz and throughout Portugal. The tile panels and paintings are an important visual record of the legends and miracles that led to her canonization in 1625. The chapel is a place that preserves the memory of a historical and religious figure associated with compassion and charity, keeping her legacy alive through art and popular faith.

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