Chapel of Our Lady of Good Death

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Madeira > Calheta > Cabo > Cabito

Location:

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Good Death (Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte) is situated in Sítio do Cabo, an area belonging to the parish of Ponta do Pargo, in the municipality of Calheta, on the Island of Madeira. It is located on a mid-slope position, nestled in a rural environment, which lends the place an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity.

The temple is preceded by an extensive walled churchyard, paved with cobblestones. This outdoor space features continuous benches, inviting visitors to pause for contemplation of the surrounding landscape and the building itself.

History and Evolution:

The origins of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte date back to the 17th century. It was in 1666 that permission was obtained for the construction of an altar and for the performance of religious services in an existing hermitage, dedicated to the invocation of Our Lady of the Good Death.

Over time, the chapel underwent several significant alterations. The 20th century, in particular, was a period of great transformations, with exterior and interior remodelling that changed its original appearance. In 1954, the building underwent a complete reconstruction, and in 1999, further requalification works took place, including improvements to the paving and the application of tiles.

Architecture and Exterior Elements:

The chapel displays a religious architectural design, with some characteristics that harken back to the Mannerist style. Its plan is longitudinal and simple. The main facade, facing west, is marked by a perfect arch portal, constructed from basalt stonework, a recurring material in Madeiran architecture.

This facade is crowned by a gable with a cornice and a cross. An open porch, with a wooden trough-shaped ceiling, precedes the main entrance, creating a welcoming transitional space. On the south side, a rectangular bell tower rises, also topped by a gable with a cross, with access provided by a side staircase that integrates into the ensemble.

The Interior and Sacred Art:

Inside, visitors find a unique space where the floor is made of basalt stonework. The walls are covered by a wainscoting of modern tiles, which add a contemporary touch to the ambiance. One of the most notable elements is the wooden trough-shaped ceiling, artistically painted with representations of cherubs and elaborate arabesque motifs, which visually enrich the space.

To the left of the entrance, a small holy water font in basalt stonework welcomes arrivals. On the Gospel side, a polygonal wooden pulpit stands out. The altar, accessible by steps, is flanked by a curved pediment altarpiece, which frames a painting dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte, highlighted by a painted canopy on the wall, inviting careful observation of the devotional details.

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