Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Portalegre > Campo Maior > Ouguela > Enxara
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Enxara is located in the rural area of Enxara, near Ouguela, in the municipality of Campo Maior. Situated on a serene plain, the chapel benefits from its proximity to the Xévora stream, which flows to its south, contributing to a tranquil natural environment. The paved churchyard, with stone benches, offers an invitation to contemplation. Nearby, the presence of a fountain, also with benches, provides support for pilgrims and visitors.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Enxara, also known as a Sanctuary, has its roots in medieval foundations, dating back to the 14th century. However, the building seen today was significantly transformed over the centuries, with major construction campaigns in the 18th century, which gave it its Rococo aesthetic, and further interventions in the 20th century. This site has always been a point of strong devotion and pilgrimage, keeping alive the tradition of pilgrimage, especially noticeable during the Easter period, attracting visitors in search of peace and introspection.
With an architecture that reflects its long history, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Enxara features a whitewashed facade, typical of the region. Its three-arched portico stands out, preceding the main entrance. Laterally, and at the chancel end, vestiges of arcaded galleries with groin vaults persist, possibly remnants of the primitive chapel. The interior, simple in its plastered and whitewashed masonry, is enriched by 18th-century artistic elements. The side altars and the pulpit, as well as the main altarpiece, are examples of the Rococo style, with light blue painted stuccoes and golden details, manifested in volute and scroll decorations, lending a touch of refinement to the space.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Enxara is more than a religious building; it is a place imbued with history and faith, driven by popular belief. Its origin is linked to the revered Legend of Nossa Senhora da Enxara. It is told that the Virgin Mary appeared to a girl from Ouguela near the Xévora stream. Later, an image of Our Lady was found on a rock in the same spot, leading the inhabitants to erect this chapel. The image of the Virgin with the Child on the rock, iconography associated with the legend, gives the sanctuary a unique character and a profound meaning for the community and its visitors.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.080872,-7.0162032
Coordinates DMS: 39°04'51.1"N 07°00'58.3"W
Weather Ouguela
On-duty Pharmacy Ouguela
