Chapel of Sirol

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Lisboa > Torres Vedras > Sirol > Dois Portos e Runa

Location

The Sirol Chapel is serenely integrated into the locality of Sirol, part of the union of parishes of Dois Portos and Runa, in the municipality of Torres Vedras. Its position in this setting, which combines rural and urban characteristics, invites a more tranquil visit, allowing observation of the surrounding landscape of this Western region.

An 18th-Century Edification

This religious building, known as the Sirol Chapel or Chapel of Our Lady of Purification, was blessed on July 20, 1749, as per an inscription visible on its facade. This date marks its construction in the 18th century, a period that stood out for its artistic and religious effervescence in Portugal, and the chapel reflects the aesthetics and architectural values of the era.

The Interior and the Art of Stucco

What most distinguishes the interior of the Sirol Chapel is its remarkable and surprising stucco work. This artistic technique, which involves the application of decorative mortar, completely covers the walls and the vault of the space. The result is a visually very rich and harmonious environment, which exemplifies the craftsmanship of the period of its construction.

The Representations of the Evangelists

Inside the chapel, the art of stucco is complemented by the inclusion of four large panels, strategically arranged on both sides of the space. These panels feature the representations of the Evangelists: Saint Matthew, Saint Mark, Saint John, and Saint Luke. The presence of these figures lends additional meaning to the artistic ensemble, inviting a careful observation of the decorative details.

The Image on the Main Altar

At the central point of the chapel, on its main altar, visitors can contemplate the image of Our Lady with the Child. This representation is the devotional focal point of the space, assuming a symbolic and artistic importance that enriches the stucco ornamentation and contributes to the atmosphere of contemplation of the place.

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