Church of Our Lady of the Thorn Bush

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Évora > Canaviais > Espinheiro

Location

, It is located on the outskirts of the Canaviais neighborhood, about four kilometers from the Historic Center of Évora.

History and Foundation

, The church was founded in 1458, in an area where a hermitage had previously existed, built in 1412.

, The foundation was inspired by a legend that tells of the apparition of Our Lady over a burning thorn bush to a shepherd.

Religious Importance

, The place became an important destination for pilgrimage over the centuries.

, Several Portuguese sovereigns, such as D. Afonso V and D. João II, had a special connection with the church.

National Monument

, The church was classified as a National Monument in 1910.

, The annexed chapel also received the same classification in 1922.

Connection with Royalty

, D. Afonso V promised and fulfilled the offering of a silver statue after the victory in Arzila in 1471.

, D. João II held vigils and penances in the church, where a plot against his life would have been discovered.

, Princess D. Isabel, future wife of Prince D. Afonso, stayed at the convent before the wedding in 1490.

Buried Personalities

, Burial place of various historical figures, such as D. Maria (daughter of D. Manuel I), the Infanta D. Beatriz, and the chronicler Garcia de Resende.

Architecture and Conservation

, The structure remains faithful to its original design, even after its requalification as a luxury hotel.

, The old wine cellar is now a gourmet restaurant, and the monks' kitchen has been converted into a piano bar.

Places of Interest Nearby

, Chapel built by D. Sebastião, characterized by a dome with an oculus similar to the Pantheon in Rome.

, Hermitage of Garcia de Resende, built in the 16th century, which architecturally dialogues with the monastery.

Art Pieces and Relics

, Porta-Paz (Peace Gate), a Manueline liturgical piece of great value, highlighted by its complexity and the representation of Our Lady with the Child on a thorn bush.

Visits and Experiences

, In addition to visiting the church, tourists can explore the Gothic cistern adapted for wine and regional product tastings.

, The place offers a unique experience that combines history, religion and contemporary luxury.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convento_do_Espinheiro_(%C3%89vora)

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