Our Lady of Truths Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Sé

Location

The Chapel of Our Lady of Truths is nestled in the heart of the Historic Centre of Porto, classified as a World Heritage site. It is located on Rua de D. Hugo, a street that preserves much of the city's original layout, testifying to its ancient history. This location, in the Sé area, places it in one of the city's oldest and most significant points, with surroundings that invite exploration on foot.

Historical Memory

The chapel's history dates back to 1697, when its construction began on the initiative of the Confraternity of Our Lady of the Postigo das Verdades. Its name is intrinsically linked to the image of the Virgin it venerates, which is believed to have been originally placed over one of the ancient gates of Porto's primitive wall, known as Postigo das Mentiras (Gate of Lies), later renamed Postigo das Verdades (Gate of Truths). This connection to the old wall gives the chapel a profound sense of belonging to the city and its evolution.

Architectural and Artistic Aspects

Regarding architecture, the Chapel of Our Lady of Truths is a notable example of the Mannerist style, marking the transition between the Renaissance and the Baroque. Its facade is delineated by Tuscan pilasters and topped by a triangular pediment, lending it an elegant sobriety.

The chapel's interior reveals a main altarpiece which, although Mannerist in style, incorporates elements of the national Baroque, visible in its twisted columns and rich decoration with eucharistic motifs, such as vine leaves and bunches of grapes. In the central niche of this altarpiece, lies the revered image of Our Lady of Truths, a stone sculpture from Ançã, probably dating from the 14th century. The ensemble is enriched by four paintings representing figures such as Saint Dominic and Saint Joseph, complementing the atmosphere of devotion and art.

A New Purpose

After periods of degradation, the chapel benefited from a careful restoration promoted by the Municipality of Porto, reopening its doors in 2018. Currently, this historic and artistic space serves as a welcoming and support point for pilgrims walking the Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago de Compostela. This new function highlights its continuous relevance, connecting the past with the present and offering a place for rest and reflection for those who walk by faith or for leisure.

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