Chapel of Our Lady of Exile

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Leiria > Alcobaça > Alcobaça > Quinta do Almeida

Location

Located in Alcobaça, in the Quinta do Almeida area, the Chapel of Our Lady of Exile is situated within the former gardens of Alcobaça Monastery, a place historically known as Jardim das Murtas (Myrtle Garden). It is positioned on a small elevation of land south of the Monastery, integrated into the urban surroundings of the locality. The chapel can be observed from the exterior, particularly from its churchyard, which has access points via staircases to the north and east, designed with several flights and landings that invite contemplation of the building.

Historical and Architectural Heritage

The Chapel of Our Lady of Exile is a remarkable example of Portuguese religious architecture, dating from the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Its construction took place between 1687 and 1690, at the initiative of Friar Pedro de Alencastre, secretary to Abbot-General Friar Sebastião de Sottomayor. Later, in 1716, Father Friar Luís de São José is believed to have contributed to its design in Baroque style. This building was initially erected for religious purposes and, according to records, was intended to house the body of Saint Constança, which was brought from Rome for this purpose.

Artistic Details

The chapel presents a fusion of Mannerist and Baroque elements, visible on both its exterior and interior. The main façade, facing northeast, stands out for its entrance portal, framed by a double pseudo-Solomonic column arrangement, and topped by a pediment housing a central oculus. Above, a niche displays a sculptural group depicting Saint Joseph asleep, receiving the angel's message to flee to Egypt, a detail of great biblical symbolism.

Inside, though not accessible to the public, the chapel holds a rich artistic heritage. Its walls are covered with figurative tile panels, in cobalt blue tones on a white background, illustrating scenes from the childhood of Christ, framed by elaborate borders with architectural motifs and celestial figures. The main chapel (chancel) is particularly exquisite, with mural paintings on its vault representing albarradas (vases of flowers), garlands, and foliage volutes, framing a central octagonal medallion with the depiction of the sun and a Latin inscription. The main altar, in gilded "national style" carving, complements the grandeur of the space, with its Baroque altar in two-tone marble.

Recognition and Importance

The Chapel of Our Lady of Exile was classified as a National Monument on June 16, 1910, a recognition of its historical and architectural importance for the country. It is also an integral part of the Special Protection Zone of Alcobaça Monastery, emphasizing its relationship with the monastic complex and its heritage value. Although it is not currently open for public visits, its unique presence in the landscape of Alcobaça and the visible details from the exterior allow any visitor to appreciate the beauty and artistic legacy of this space.

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