Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Leiria > Bombarral > Carvalhal > Sobral do Parelhão
The Sanctuary of Senhor Jesus do Carvalhal is located in the town of Carvalhal, an integral part of the municipality of Bombarral. Situated in the Sobral do Parelhão area, this place of faith and tranquility is surrounded by a vast wooded park, locally known as "arvoredo" (wooded area). This green setting offers a serene environment conducive to contemplation, distinguishing the sanctuary in the surrounding landscape.
This sanctuary has a rich history, marked by popular devotion since time immemorial. It dates back to a primitive 14th-century hermitage dedicated to Saint Peter, patron saint of the parish. Over the centuries, it transformed into a central point for pilgrimages, processions, and religious festivals, attracting visitors from various regions. Its relevance is such that, from 1762 onwards, the local parish began to be designated "of Senhor Jesus and Saint Peter," recognizing the growing importance of the image of Christ venerated here.
A local legend tells the story of the image of Senhor Jesus: it is said to have been found in a large box washed ashore by the waves in Peniche. Curiously, although initially easy to transport, the box became extremely heavy upon reaching the vicinity of the then hermitage of Saint Peter, where it was finally opened, revealing the venerated image of Christ. This event, according to tradition, marked the beginning of the famous "Círios." The Círios are continuous pilgrimages throughout the year, where the faithful carry candles that are blessed and lit at the sanctuary, and then taken to their hometowns as a symbol of faith.
The church of the Sanctuary of Senhor Jesus do Carvalhal, in its current form, dates back to the 16th century, exhibiting an eclectic architectural style. Inside, the single-nave interior features a prominent painted wooden ceiling, which displays a central panel illustrating the instruments of the Passion of Christ. The chancel is covered by a barrel vault adorned with the insignia of the Passion and the attributes of Saint Peter in stucco relief.
At the heart of the chancel, the main altar houses within a glass display cabinet the venerated image of the crucified Jesus Christ, of unknown origin but with characteristics suggesting Flemish production. In addition to this central point of devotion, the sanctuary features two collateral altars and two side chapels, one serving as a baptistery and the other dedicated to Senhor dos Passos (Lord of the Steps). The pulpit, with its balcony and gilded carved baldachin, and the U-shaped choir loft, which incorporates the holy water fonts, are other artistic elements to observe in this place of worship.
Beyond its religious and historical significance, the Sanctuary of Senhor Jesus do Carvalhal stands out for its serene atmosphere, provided by the extensive wooded park that surrounds it. This space, popularly known as "arvoredo," invites contemplation and rest. It is here that visitors can find an outdoor altar for open-air celebrations and the Stations of the Cross, which wind through the trees, offering a path for reflection.
The presence of old pilgrim houses within the architectural complex complements the sanctuary's atmosphere of hospitality and tradition. The union of the religious edifice with the vast green area creates a harmonious setting where spirituality merges with natural tranquility, making the visit a peaceful and inspiring experience.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.2825401,-9.1355028
Coordinates DMS: 39°16'57.1"N 09°08'7.8"W
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