They are Gens

Category: Nature > Park

District: Porto > Trofa > Santiago > Zona Industrial de Lantemil

Location

The Monte de São Gens rises as a landmark in the landscape, located in the locality of Santiago, in the municipality of Trofa. More specifically situated in the Lantemil area, this mount stands out for its geographical prominence and the natural environment that characterizes it.

Its elevated position offers a comprehensive panoramic view of the surrounding area, extending across valleys and allowing, on days with good visibility, to spot the sea in the distance. It is a place of notable tranquility, which distinguishes itself in the surrounding scenery.

Spiritual Legacy and Natural Environment

São Gens is a place where three distinct lines of devotion intertwine, each with its own significance and particularity. This mount is traditionally a spiritual meeting point, considered a sacred space and a religious epicenter for the municipality's community. The coexistence of these different forms of worship on the same hillconfers upon it a remarkable cultural and historical uniqueness.

São Gens itself is associated with the worship of heights, and it is common to find temples dedicated to this saint on elevated points that provide wide views. The natural environment of the site invites contemplation and the enjoyment of the serenity that characterizes it.

Path of Faith and Marian Devotion

As one ascends the Monte de São Gens, those who explore it encounter aalignment of granite crosses that mark the path of the Via Sacra, inviting reflection and introspection. This devotional path culminates at the top of the hill, where one of the main points of veneration is located.

At the summit, a statue of Mary with the Child Jesus in her arms is discovered, known as Nossa Senhora da Alegria (Our Lady of Joy). The image integrates into the scenic landscape which, on clear days, allows a glimpse of the vastness of the ocean in the distance, adding a special dimension to its location.

History and Tradition of the Chapel-Monument

The history of São Gens on the Trofa Mount dates back to ancient times, with evidence of occupation since the Roman era. In the past, there was a hermitage on the summit that, after years of abandonment, eventually fell into ruins, testifying to the passage of time in this important location.

The current Capela-Monumento de São Gens (Chapel-Monument of São Gens), whose construction began in the late 1940s and was solemnly blessed in 1951, is the result of the commitment and collaboration of the local community and benefactors. This modern building houses the image of São Gens and subsequently received significant improvements, including the placement of the image of Nossa Senhora da Alegria, the expansion of the chapel, and the construction of a staircase with calvaries.

The mount is the scene of an annual pilgrimage, celebrated on the first weekend of September, keeping alive the tradition and the people's deep connection to this place of faith and contemplation. This annual celebration reinforces the sacred and community character of São Gens throughout the centuries.

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