Chapel of the Lord of Souls

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Portalegre > Ponte de Sor > Galveias > Ribeira das Vinhas

Location

The Chapel of Our Lord of the Souls is situated in a serene rural area, known as Ribeira das Vinhas. It is located next to the national road connecting Galveias and Ponte de Sor, approximately two kilometers from the village of Galveias. The site is slightly elevated from its surroundings, providing a natural setting, enveloped by cork oaks and typical Alentejo landscape vegetation.

Origin and History

This site boasts a long history of devotion. It is believed that the current chapel, likely dating from the 18th or 19th century, replaced an older prayer spot. Initially, there was a small niche carved into the trunk of a cork oak, where travelers would stop to pray for the souls in purgatory. The piety and affection of the faithful for this simple niche eventually led to the construction of the chapel that stands here today.

Over time, the chapel underwent interventions. There are records of significant restorations that took place in the mid-20th century, in 1954, and more recently, in 1992, ensuring the preservation of this small temple and its importance to the community.

Architecture and Appearance

It is a building of modest dimensions and a simple plan, composed of a nave and a small side annex that serves as a sacristy. The exterior is whitewashed, with structural elements like quoins and finishes painted in blue, following a traditional aesthetic. The main facade is notable for its peculiar counter-curved gable, inspired by Baroque models.

Above the main portal, which has a straight frame, there is an azulejo panel depicting the Crucifixion with souls at the base, identifying the patron saint. Inside, the chapel features a false barrel vault ceiling. The masonry altar is simple but notable for its late-Baroque inspired composition, with columns and a central painted panel illustrating the theme of Souls in Purgatory, despite being in a delicate condition.

Devotion and Tradition

The Chapel of Our Lord of the Souls is intimately linked to the tradition of interceding for the souls of the deceased. Although the original inscription that called upon the living to pray for the dead is no longer visible on its pediment, the essence of devotion remains. This is a place that invites reflection and remembrance.

Annually, in September, the chapel and its surroundings become the center of a popular pilgrimage that celebrates the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. This event gathers the community and visitors, keeping alive the historical and religious connection of this place.

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