Our Lady of Virtues Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Lisboa > Alenquer > Ventosa > Labrugueira

Location:

The Church of Nossa Senhora das Virtudes is located in Labrugueira, a calm and rural area within the locality of Ventosa, in the municipality of Alenquer. Its position is set within a landscape that expresses the serenity of the countryside, characteristic of the Oeste region. From the site, one can observe rural surroundings, with the gentle profile of the hills that define the area. The tranquility felt in Labrugueira invites appreciation of the natural environment and a leisurely discovery of local heritage.

Traces of Yesteryear:

The Church of Nossa Senhora das Virtudes constitutes a historical landmark for the community of Ventosa. Currently, the building appears as a set of ruins, a testament to time and the elements. However, its vestiges still allow a glimpse of the grandeur of a structure that, in times past, was a vibrant place of worship and a point of reference for the religious life of the population. Its dedication to Nossa Senhora das Virtudes reflects a traditional Marian devotion in Portugal. Observing what remains of its original design offers a perspective on the evolution of religious heritage in the Alenquer region.

Architectural Legacy:

Despite its state of preservation, the Church of Nossa Senhora das Virtudes still reveals some distinctive features of its original architecture. It is possible to discern the skeleton of its main walls, the layout of the nave, and, with careful observation, identify details that have withstood the passage of years. These elements are valuable for those seeking to understand the typology of rural religious constructions from earlier eras. The structure, even if partial, remains as a tangible record of its constructive history and its presence over time in Ventosa.

Community Symbol:

Despite not being fully operational, the Church of Nossa Senhora das Virtudes maintains a strong symbolism for the community of Ventosa. Its name is shared by a local institution that plays an active role in the social life of the locality, underlining its continuous importance in the collective identity and memory. The ruins of the church serve as an invitation to reflect on the historical and cultural heritage of Labrugueira, recalling the resilience of places and the generations who lived there. Its presence, even in silence, contributes to the narrative of the place.

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