Hermitage of São Luís da Mogueira

Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage

District: Évora > Montemor-o-Novo > Nossa Senhora da Vila, Nossa Senhora do Bispo e Silveiras > Quinta da Torre

Location

The Hermitage of São Luís da Mogueira is located in the municipality of Montemor-o-Novo, in the area covering the localities of Nossa Senhora da Vila, Nossa Senhora do Bispo, and Silveiras. More precisely, it is found in the Quinta da Torre area. Its geographical position, atop a hill, offers a perspective over the surrounding landscape, typically Alentejo, with its wide horizons.

Historical roots

This small hermitage has its foundation documented in the 17th century. Its construction at that time reflects a period of great devotion and the importance of faith in the daily lives of Alentejo's rural communities. The simplicity of its architecture is a testament to the modesty and original purpose of the building, which remains to this day.

Devotion and testimonies of faith

Inside the hermitage, the image of São Luís stands out, a figure of particular reverence in the region, as he is considered the patron saint of livestock. One of the most unique and culturally significant aspects are the ex-votos that can be observed. These are mostly wax representations of animals, which devotees left as a form of gratitude or promise, revealing a deeply rooted tradition and the community's strong connection to agro-pastoral life.

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