Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception (Ourém)

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Ourém > Ourém > Antiga Vila de Ourém

Location

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception is located in the Old Town of Ourém, a historic center that evokes the town's past. It is situated next to the Porta de Santarém (Santarém Gate), one of the old entrances to the walled town, which was once the most residential area. This positioning gives it a unique setting, nestled within the serene atmosphere and cobblestone streets that characterize the historic center, near the old walls.

A Chapel with History

This religious building has its roots in the 17th century, with its foundation dating to 1642, at the initiative of Canon António Henriques. Originally, it was known as the Hermitage of the Holy Spirit, occupying the site of one of the four primitive hermitages that marked the town's original core. Over the centuries, and despite a reconstruction in the 19th century, the chapel has maintained its religious function, serving as a testament to local devotion and architectural evolution.

Architectural and Artistic Details

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception stands out for its main façade, which is covered in 17th-century polychrome tiles, a visual element that immediately catches the eye. Inside, the nave and chancel feature a terracotta tile floor and a false-vaulted ceiling. The walls are also decorated with monochrome patterned tiles in shades of blue and white, forming a wainscot. The chancel is particularly enriched with polychrome tiles that cover its walls.

The main altarpiece, made of gilded woodcarving, occupies the back wall, displaying pilasters and a central niche that houses the image of the patron saint. On the Gospel side, a stone pulpit can be seen, while at the entrance, on the Epistle side, an artistically decorated holy water font made of pink marble welcomes visitors. Also of note are the two frescoes inside the chapel, featuring scenes from the life of the Virgin, elements that, due to their artistic importance, enhance the cultural value of the space.

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