Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Leiria > Peniche > Consolação > Praia da Consolação
In the coastal area of Consolação, belonging to the municipality of Peniche, stands the Church of Our Lady of Consolation. Its striking presence blends into the landscape of Consolação Beach, offering a distinct landmark in the local urban environment. It is prominently situated, relatively isolated, and a short distance from the coastline.
The Church of Our Lady of Consolation has its roots in the 18th century, being a project conceived by the military engineer Estêvão Luís. Built on the site where an earlier hermitage dedicated to the same cult is presumed to have existed, its construction aimed to accommodate a considerable number of worshippers. The remarkable size of its main nave testifies to the importance this temple held as a stopping and celebration point for pilgrims participating in the famous Círios de Freiria and do Gradil.
The interior of the church reveals a singular artistic richness, with its walls adorned with panels of Baroque tiles. These coverings feature motifs and scenes narrating moments from the life of Our Lady, lending the space an atmosphere of contemplation and beauty. Among the diverse imagery present, the figure of the patron saint, Our Lady of Consolation, stands out as the center of local devotion. The building has been subject to conservation and restoration interventions, aiming to preserve its exterior structure and the delicacy of its tiles and images.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.3242233,-9.3593765
Coordinates DMS: 39°19'27.2"N 09°21'33.8"W