Chapel of the Mercy of Sines

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Setúbal > Sines > Sines > Bairro 1º de Maio

Location

The Chapel of Mercy (Capela da Misericórdia) is located in the heart of Sines, integrated into the urban fabric of the Bairro 1º de Maio. It is in a central area of the town, forming one of the corners of the block between Rua Cândido dos Reis and Largo do Muro da Praia, an easily recognizable point for those exploring the city's historic center.

History and Construction

The history of the Chapel of Mercy dates back to the late 16th century. Its construction was authorized by King Philip I of Portugal, in response to a request from the brothers of the Sines Misericórdia, who needed a more suitable place of worship than the existing church, which was then small and in poor condition. The construction of this remarkable building was driven by the alms and devotion of the faithful to the image of Our Lady of Grace, reflecting the importance of the community in its establishment and maintenance throughout the centuries. Currently, the building is owned by the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Sines and is managed by the Municipal Council for conservation purposes.

Architecture and Artistic Heritage

The chapel features an architectural style that combines Mannerist and Baroque elements. Its initial 16th-century design is characterized by an austerity and functionality typical of regional Mannerism. On the exterior, the cartouche on the main façade stands out, where the five wounds of Christ are visible, a symbol of Mercy. Also noteworthy are the Sevillian tiles that adorn the window openings next to the portal and an unusual scallop-shell shaped holy water font.

Inside, the single nave is covered by a three-paneled wooden ceiling. The chancel houses a gilt and polychrome carved altarpiece, executed in the mid-18th century, which is considered one of the most valuable artistic elements. This altarpiece, with its shrine and Eucharistic throne flanked by angels, is an example of the transition to the first manifestations of Rococo. Upon entering the chancel, one can observe compositions of grotesque mural paintings that cover the pilasters of the triumphal arch, adding a touch of originality to the ambiance.

A Space for Events

Over time, the Chapel of Mercy adapted its original function. Although it is no longer a regular place of worship, the building has been preserved and adapted to host various initiatives. Thanks to its excellent acoustics, it is frequently used for small performances and concerts, as well as for exhibitions, colloquiums, and other cultural gatherings. This new vocation allows the public to discover its interior on special occasions, revealing its beauty and relevance in the cultural landscape of Sines.

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