Our Lady of Exile Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Leiria > Porto de Mós > Manhosa

Location

The Chapel of Our Lady of Exile is located in the village of Manhosa, within the municipality of Porto de Mós. Its setting in the Ribeira de Cima area lends the site an atmosphere of tranquility, harmoniously integrated into the region's natural landscape. Although discreet, the chapel holds a significant presence in the local community.

Origin and Name

Dating back to 1688, the Chapel of Our Lady of Exile carries a history reflected in its very name. The designation "Desterro" is linked to a popular tradition that identifies it as a place of farewell. According to oral tradition, it was on this site that those sentenced to exile would gather before departing for uncertain destinations, symbolizing the pain of separation and the uncertainty of return. This historical and human backdrop lends a profound and unique meaning to the space.

Architecture and Art

Over the centuries, the chapel has undergone several improvements that have contributed to its preservation, while maintaining, however, its original essence. The current tower, for example, was erected in 1948. Inside, the image of the saint stands out, a representation in polychrome clay, being one of the few examples of this artistic technique in the municipality. The beautiful azulejo tilework also enriches its visual appearance, contributing to an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation.

A Symbol of Hope and Devotion

More than a place of worship, the Chapel of Our Lady of Exile represents a space of memories and hope. It is a point of 'departures and returns', where the exiles of the past (and those who still face separations or long journeys today) could and can find solace. This is a place where devotion intertwines with life stories and human resilience, remaining a refuge of faith and a testament to the passage of time and human vicissitudes.

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