Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Évora > Estremoz > Estremoz > Santo André
Situated in the picturesque city of Estremoz, in the heart of Alentejo, the Chapel of Santo Cristo can be found in the Santo André area. More specifically, it is located on Avenida Tomais de Alcaide, harmoniously integrated into the urban fabric and easily identifiable by those who travel through this area of the locality.
This small and remarkable religious building has its origins in the 16th century. It was in 1574 that the Estremoz Senate determined its construction, initially giving it the form of a simple Calvary. Its current configuration, however, is the result of a significant intervention dated 1751. This renovation, undertaken by Miguel Borralho, aimed to integrate an already existing cross into a closed chapel structure.
From an architectural point of view, the Chapel of Santo Cristo presents a fusion of styles. Its basic structure reveals the sober and proportionate lines of Neoclassical, while the decorative elements that adorn it exhibit the exuberance and grace of Rococo, creating a visually interesting and noteworthy ensemble.
Beyond its architectural value, the Chapel of Santo Cristo is linked to a significant moment in Portuguese history. Tradition holds that it was near this spot that D. Nuno Álvares Pereira, a legendary figure and fundamental in the defense of national independence, attended mass before the historic Battle of Atoleiros, fought in the year 1384. This connection confers an additional layer of meaning to the site, inviting reflection on past deeds in the Alentejo lands.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.8421028,-7.5844883
Coordinates DMS: 38°50'31.6"N 07°35'4.2"W