Hermitage of Memory

Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage

District: Setúbal > Sesimbra > Sesimbra > Junto ao Castelo

Location

The Chapel of Memory is located on the Cape Espichel, an emblematic area of the municipality of Sesimbra. Situated on the cliff, the chapel is flanked by a small atrium that serves as a viewpoint, offering a panoramic view of the ocean and the coastline. This elevated point invites contemplation of the natural grandeur of the site.

A Legendary Origin

Dating back to the 15th century, this chapel is the oldest element of the architectural complex of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel. Its construction is intrinsically linked to an ancient tradition: the chapel was erected on the exact spot where, according to popular legend, the image of Our Lady was discovered in 1410. This event marked the beginning of the cult of the Virgin of the Cape, giving rise to a devotion that continues to this day.

Architectural Features

The Chapel of Memory has a quadrangular floor plan and low walls. However, what distinguishes it is its unusual roof: a contracurving dome, reminiscent of a bulb, culminating in a rounded pinnacle. Although the terminal sphere of this pinnacle has been lost over time, the structure retains its uniqueness, giving the building a particular and recognizable aesthetic.

Memory in Tile

The interior of the chapel is adorned up to half its height with panels of blue and white tiles, dating from the early second half of the 18th century. These narrative panels depict scenes from local history and devotion, including the discovery of the image of Nossa Senhora do Cabo, the construction of the chapel itself, and the development of the site. On the exterior, on one of the walls, two tile panels from the same period can be seen, depicting figures of pilgrim saints, visually enriching the monument and telling another chapter of its history.

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