Chapel of the Vila Cova das Donas Monastery

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Porto > Vila Nova de Gaia > Vila Cova das Donas > Sandim, Olival, Lever e Crestuma

Location:

The Monastery Chapel is located in the peaceful village of Vila Cova das Donas. This area is part of the union of parishes of Sandim, Olival, Lever, and Crestuma, situated in the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Ancient Origins:

This chapel is believed to have roots dating back to a period before the very foundation of Portugal. It is thought to have been the main chapel of a Benedictine monastery dedicated to São Salvador. There are references to D. Gundezindo as a figure associated with its origin, possibly linked to the fulfillment of a vow.

A Monastic Past:

For centuries, this place functioned as an important monastic center for Benedictine nuns. However, conventual life here ended in the 16th century, when the monastery was dissolved. The nuns who resided in this monastery were then transferred to the Monastery of São Bento da Ave Maria, located in the city of Porto.

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