Lord of the Steps Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Leiria > Alcobaça > Évora de Alcobaça > Alto Azul

Location

The Chapel of Senhor dos Passos is located in the town of Évora de Alcobaça, in the municipality of Alcobaça, district of Leiria. Situated in the urban area of Alto Azul, this small temple stands out next to the main road, with one of its side facades harmoniously integrated into the neighboring buildings, giving it a discreet yet notable presence in the daily life of the town.

A History and Heritage

With its roots in the 16th century, this chapel is a testament to the architecture of the period. Built to serve a local confraternity, its purpose has always been linked to the community and to worship, remaining over the centuries a space of faith and tradition in the Alcobaça region. Although it has acquired some Renaissance features over time, its 16th-century essence remains visible, inviting a closer look at its evolution.

Exterior Architectural Highlights

The main facade of the Chapel of Senhor dos Passos, facing southwest, features a triangular gable topped by a trefoil cross. However, it is its Manueline portal that immediately captures the attention, considered one of the most beautiful examples in the region of the former Coutos de Alcobaça. This portal, although marked by the passage of time and erosion, reveals an intricate vegetalist decoration, a round arch, and a counter-curved finish. To the left, a simple yet distinctive bell tower completes the facade's composition.

The Interior and Its Details

Upon entering, the space consists of a single nave, whose flagstone floor and barrel vault ceiling give the environment a sense of simplicity and welcome. In the center of the vault, paintings representing the instruments of the Passion of Christ invite contemplation. Inside the chancel, a round triumphal arch introduces a curved pediment, where one can observe the representation of the Veil of Veronica. The main altar displays a polychrome carved altarpiece, which features the wooden image of the Senhor dos Passos (Lord of the Steps), a sculpture that popular tradition says came from Brazil during the 19th century.

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