Hermitage of São Bartolomeu

Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage

District: Leiria > Nazaré > Nazaré > Sítio

Location

The Hermitage of São Bartolomeu is located atop the mount of the same name, a prominent natural feature in the landscape of Nazaré, in the Sítio area. This mount, of magmatic origin, stands out as an "island" of vegetation amidst the Leiria pine forest, visible from dozens of kilometers away and historically serving as a landmark for navigators. At its summit, approximately 156 meters high, a panorama unfolds encompassing the vastness of the ocean and the surrounding natural environment, accessible by a series of stairs that invite ascent and contemplation.

A Chapel with History and Legend

This small chapel of religious architecture is a testament to local faith and history, remaining in use for religious purposes to this day. Its structure comprises a simple central nave, a main altar, and a small sacristy. The hermitage is intimately linked to the Legend of Nazaré, being the place where, in 711, D. Rodrigo and Friar Romano are said to have arrived, bringing with them the image of Our Lady of Nazaré and relics of Saints São Brás and São Bartolomeu, which justifies its dual nomenclature and popular veneration. Inside, two tomb slabs can be observed on the floor, elements that underscore the antiquity and historical value of the site, which once formed part of a broader hermitage.

Natural Heritage and Biodiversity

Beyond its religious and historical significance, Mount São Bartolomeu is recognized for its exceptional natural value. In 1979, it was classified as a Classified Site, a status that highlights the richness of its flora and fauna, and is currently in the process of being classified as a national natural monument. The present vegetation is remarkably diverse, with about 150 types of vascular plants, including 15 Iberian endemisms, representing ancient Mediterranean floristic associations. Among the most predominant species are the kermes oak, the strawberry tree, and the mock privet. Regarding avifauna, birds such as the Kestrel and the Buzzard can be spotted, contributing to the ecological uniqueness of this isolated mount.

Traditions and Festivities

The mount and the hermitage are also the stage for a secular pilgrimage, the Feast of São Brás, held annually on February 3rd. This celebration, of a profane-religious nature, is a moment of great influx for the population of Nazaré, who flock to the mount to celebrate. This tradition marks the beginning of the Carnival Festivities in the region and is so deeply rooted in local culture that, due to the pilgrimage, the mount is often locally referred to as Mount São Brás.

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