Sanctuary of Our Lady of Conception of the Rock

Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary

District: Lisboa > Oeiras > Linda-a-Pastora > Núcleo Urbano Histórico de Linda-a-Pastora

Location

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Rocha is located in Linda-a-Pastora, in the municipality of Oeiras, nestled in the Jamor valley. This site is a prominent feature in the surrounding urban area, set apart by a terreiro that gives it a unique atmosphere. Adjacent to the sanctuary is the Jardim da Rocha, a pleasant space that also holds historical remnants, such as an old Roman bridge.

A Singular Origin Story

The genesis of this sanctuary dates back to a significant discovery in 1822. It is said that an image of Our Lady of the Conception was found in a grotto on the banks of the Jamor River, near Casal da Rocha. Due to its importance, the image was initially taken to the Patriarchal See of Lisbon and later to the Church of São Romão de Carnaxide. However, the need for a worthy place for its veneration led to the construction of this temple, erected precisely on the site of the apparition. Today, it is possible to access the interior of the original grotto, located in the foundations of the church, via a flight of stairs.

Architecture and Artistic Details

Built between 1830 and 1892, and inaugurated in 1893, the sanctuary features 19th-century architecture. The building has a rectangular plan with a stepped volume, crowned by a triangular pediment displaying a cross. Inside, the church reveals a single nave, covered by a barrel vault. Before the chancel, a triumphal arch frames two altars in gilded woodwork, enriching the space. The chancel, with a square plan, is adorned with decorative paintings, with the main altar housing a camarim where the throne is located. The ceiling painting of the nave, with the theme "The Assumption of the Virgin," is a work by the painter Ernesto Condeixa.

Legacy and Tradition

The inauguration of the sanctuary in May 1893 was a highly significant event, attended by Queen Dona Amélia and other members of the royal family. Later, in 1899, King D. Carlos granted the temple the status of royal chapel. Over the years, the Sanctuary of Rocha has become a center of Marian devotion, with a particular connection to the history of the Portuguese monarchy. Annually, in May, the Brotherhood of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Rocha organizes an ancient pilgrimage, one of the most traditional in Greater Lisbon, which keeps alive a secular tradition of faith and culture in the region.

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