Chapel of Saint Barbara

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Guarda > Mêda > Coriscada

Location

The Chapel of Santa Bárbara is located in the tranquil village of Coriscada, in the municipality of Mêda. It is situated on an elevated point, a knoll that stands out in the rural landscape, offering a serene and secluded environment on the outskirts of the village. The chapel's surroundings consist of a walled masonry platform, equipped with sets of stone tables and benches that invite rest and contemplation.

The surrounding slopes, at lower elevations, are partially covered by pine forests, which contributes to the calm and natural atmosphere of the place. Access to the chapel is via an unpaved road that climbs directly up the slope, starting from Fonte da Zarelha.

History and Tradition

The cult of Santa Bárbara in Coriscada has ancient roots, dating back to the 15th century, which attests to the community's long-standing devotion to this saint. The building visible today was erected in the 17th century, marking an important point in the continuity of this local religious tradition. Subsequently, at the end of the 18th century, the chapel was enriched with the addition of its main altarpiece.

Throughout the centuries, the chapel has maintained its religious function, serving as a living testament to the faith and history of the region, and a place of solace for visitors.

Architectural Details

The Chapel of Santa Bárbara features religious architecture that combines elements of the Mannerist and Rococo styles. Its plan is simple and longitudinal, with a single rectangular body and a gabled roof. The facades are plastered and painted white, with a grey sand-textured plaster base.

The main facade, facing northwest, is gabled and topped by a cross on a cubic plinth. It features a central lintelled portal, flanked by two rectangular grated and molded windows, giving it a sober and harmonious presence. The corners of the chapel are reinforced and crowned by pyramidal pinnacles and a cornice molding, adding elegance to its structure. The rear facade, although blind, is distinguished by a metal and glass cross, illuminated from within, which stands out in the landscape at dusk.

Interior and Sacred Art

Upon entering the chapel, visitors are greeted by a granite floor and an interior where the plastered and white-painted walls contrast with a blue-painted wainscot. The ceiling is a flattened barrel false vault, made of wood, which gives the space a welcoming atmosphere.

The central element of the interior is the main altarpiece, a Rococo carved piece painted with marble imitations in shades of green, brown, and red. This altarpiece, with a straight plan, features an oval central niche with a green background decorated with golden stars, where the tabernacle stands out, with a Borromini-inspired finial and a door adorned with the chalice and host. Laterally, two corbels with imagery can be observed, completing the artistic composition. The altar frontal, in the shape of an urn, and the pavement marking of a more elaborate altar, complement this space for prayer and contemplation.

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