Chapel of Our Lady of Covões

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Leiria > Alvaiázere > Alvaiázere > Covões

Location

The Chapel of Our Lady of Covões, also known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Memory, is located in the Covões area, in the town and municipality of Alvaiázere. This place, situated at the foothills of the Serra de Alvaiázere, offers a rural and serene setting, inviting tranquility and contemplation. Access to the chapel is via a long and wide staircase, arranged like an amphitheater, and at its base, a simple fountain can be observed.

Historical and Devotional Roots

The history of the Chapel of Our Lady of Covões delves into remote times, with traces of ancient Mother-Earth cults, celebrating the cycle of the seasons. Throughout the centuries, this tradition merged with Christian devotion, giving rise to the veneration of Our Lady. It is believed that a Marian apparition, possibly in the 15th century, marked this site, transforming it into an important pilgrimage point. In the 17th century, the then hermitage stood out as one of the most sought-after Marian sanctuaries in Estremadura, attracting faithful from various regions.

Architecture and Environment

The structure of the Chapel of Our Lady of Covões, in its current form, essentially dates back to the 18th century. Its architectural design is of remarkable simplicity, featuring a rectangular plan that includes the nave and the chancel, the latter being slightly narrower and lower. Inside, plastered and painted walls, a ceramic floor, and a three-plane ceiling contribute to an atmosphere of introspection. One of the most prominent elements is its main altar, of very ancient character, which invites careful observation and contemplation.

The Cave of Legends

Next to the chapel, in a slightly lower position, there is a small cave or grotto, which plays a central role in the identity of the place. It is in this space that the apparition of Our Lady of Memory is said to have occurred, transforming it into a small separate temple, sometimes referred to as the Chapel of Our Lady of the Presentation. Two main legends involve this site: one narrates the story of a captive Christian who, after a miraculous apparition in the cave, left the iron chain that bound him there as a sign of gratitude. The other tells of a shepherdess who found the image of Our Lady in the grotto and, upon trying to take it home, always saw it return to the original spot, spreading the news of the miracle.

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