Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Leiria > Figueiró dos Vinhos > Castanheira de Figueiró
The Chapel of Saint Lucy is serenely nestled in the locality of Castanheira de Figueiró, which belongs to the municipality of Figueiró dos Vinhos, in the district of Leiria. Situated in a typically rural and tranquil environment, the chapel blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. Its position often offers unobstructed views of the surrounding nature, inviting contemplation of the beauty of the valleys and hills that characterize this area of central Portugal. It is a place that provides a sense of peace and isolation, away from the daily hustle and bustle.
This modest chapel features a simple and traditional religious architecture, typical of the popular devotional constructions that dot the Portuguese landscape. Characterized by its simplicity and austerity, the building stands out for its straight lines and compact volumes. It generally displays plastered and whitewashed walls, contrasting with the traditional tiled roof and, at times, stonework elements in doors and windows. Its façade is usually sober, and may include a small belfry or bell-gable, which announce its devotional function and integrate it into the life of the local community.
The Chapel of Saint Lucy is a meeting point for local faith and tradition, dedicated to the patron saint of sight. Saint Lucy is venerated as the protector of the eyes and of vision, which gives this place a special meaning for the faithful. Over time, the chapel has been the stage for moments of prayer, pilgrimages, and religious celebrations, keeping popular devotion alive in the region. It represents a legacy of faith passed down from generation to generation, serving as a testament to the importance of religiosity in the life of the community of Castanheira de Figueiró.
The atmosphere surrounding the Chapel of Saint Lucy is conducive to serenity and introspection. Immersed in a calm natural landscape, the site invites visitors to pause and appreciate the quietness of the countryside. It is a space where the tranquility of nature merges with the spirituality of the building, offering a refuge for moments of reflection. Its location, often elevated or with a wide view, reinforces the feeling of remoteness and allows for a deeper connection with the natural surroundings and with the very essence of the place of worship.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.9140989,-8.2608291
Coordinates DMS: 39°54'50.8"N 08°15'39.0"W