Chapel of Our Lady of Penha or Sanctuary of Peninha

Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary

District: Lisboa > Sintra > Colares > Peninha

Location

The Sanctuary of Peninha is located at the highest point of the Sintra Mountains, at an altitude of 488 meters, within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. This location offers a panoramic view of the region, including Cabo da Roca, the municipality of Cascais, and, on clear days, even Cabo Espichel and the Berlengas Islands.

Origin and Legend

The chapel was built in the 17th century out of popular devotion, inspired by a local legend. It is said that a mute shepherdess, upon losing a sheep, found a mysterious lady who returned the animal to her and asked her for bread. Upon returning home, the shepherdess regained her speech, found enough bread for the whole village, and later, an image of Our Lady was sighted on the site. Thus was born the devotion and worship at the Sanctuary of Peninha.

Architecture and Structure

The complex includes the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Penha and an older hermitage, that of São Saturnino, dating from the 12th century, built in the time of the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques. There is also a revivalist-style palacete, built in 1918 by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, the owner of the famous Quinta da Regaleira.

Cultural Significance

Classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1977, the Sanctuary reflects the religious and cultural value of the region, being a point of pilgrimage and visit for centuries.

Nature and Panoramas

In addition to the historical interest, Peninha is highly sought after for its stunning views of the coast and the immersive experience of the nature of the Sintra Mountains.

Rehabilitation and Conservation

In 2017, an agreement was signed between Parque de Sintra, ICNF and EMAC to ensure the preservation of the site and improve visiting conditions, keeping the heritage accessible to the public.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capela_de_Nossa_Senhora_da_Penha_(Colares)