Lord of Souls Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Portalegre > Ponte de Sor > Montargil > Marouco

Location

The Chapel of Senhor das Almas is located in the peaceful area of Marouco, a landmark near Montargil, in the municipality of Ponte de Sor. Situated in a serene rural setting, next to National Road 244 connecting Ponte de Sor to Galveias, the chapel stands on a flat, slightly elevated plot.

Its surroundings are dominated by the Alentejo landscape, with holm oaks and spontaneous vegetation embracing the site. The proximity to the road is discreet, with a small granite cobbled pavement demarcating the space, inviting a moment of pause and contemplation in the heart of Alentejo.

A Legacy of Devotion

The roots of the Chapel of Senhor das Almas are deep, born from popular devotion. Before its construction, there was a simple niche at this very spot, possibly carved into the trunk of a cork oak. It was there that travelers and local inhabitants would stop to pray and intercede for the souls in purgatory, in a gesture of faith and hope.

It was this widespread veneration that spurred the chapel's construction. The structure observed today dates from the 18th century, having been erected to house and formalize the faith of generations. Over time, the temple benefited from restorations, namely in the mid-20th century and again in the 90s, which allowed for its preservation.

Architectural Features

The Chapel of Senhor das Almas presents a modest but captivating architecture, with a simple plan and welcoming dimensions. The main facade, painted white, is embellished by structural elements in shades of blue, such as quoins and friezes. The straight-lined portal is flanked by two pilasters, and just above it, an azulejo panel illustrates the Crucified with souls at the base, accompanied by the inscription "SENHOR DAS ALMAS".

The highlight is its curvilinear pediment, which elegantly tops the facade, surmounted by a metallic cross and bulbous pinnacles. Laterally, a small attached annex serves as a sacristy, completing the ensemble. The combination of colors and the simplicity of forms reflect the late Baroque religious aesthetic, typical of the region.

The Interior and Symbolism

Upon entering the chapel, one discovers a simple interior space, also whitewashed, which invites reflection. The ceiling, a false barrel vault, is punctuated by discreet stucco decorations. The floor, with geometric patterned tiles, leads the eye to the single masonry altar.

This altar, with a late Baroque-style altarpiece, is the focal point. On it, a bas-relief, despite its state of conservation, still reveals traces of the original polychromy. The central representation alludes to the theme of souls in Purgatory, an iconographic motif that reinforces the chapel's strong connection to the devotion that gave it its name, and which continues to be a symbol of faith and intercession. The chapel serves as a place of worship and celebration of faith, keeping alive the tradition of the annual pilgrimage in honor of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, which takes place in September.

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