Hermitage of Our Lady of the Rosary

Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage

District: Setúbal > Moita > Gaio-Rosário e Sarilhos Pequenos > Urbanização Alto do Gaio

Location

Situated in the tranquility of the Alto do Gaio Urbanization, in the locality of Gaio-Rosário and Sarilhos Pequenos, the Hermitage of Nossa Senhora do Rosário stands out in a vast and inviting square. This urban space, organized as an amphitheater platform, is beautified by a public garden and offers a viewpoint, providing a pleasant environment for visitors. The hermitage is isolated by a walled atrium, surrounded by buildings of traditional design, giving it a striking presence in the landscape.

Its Historical Roots

The Hermitage of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, originally dedicated to São João Evangelista, dates back to the first half of the 16th century, with its construction initiated in 1532. The initiative came from Cosme Bernardes de Macedo, a nobleman of the Royal House and local proprietor, who spurred the construction of this temple. Over the centuries, the space underwent some interventions, such as renovations in the 18th century and improvements to the roof during the 19th century, which contributed to its preservation to this day. Its historical and architectural value is recognized, being classified as a Monument of Public Interest.

Artistic and Architectural Highlights

This hermitage is a remarkable example of the fusion between Manueline architecture and a more vernacular style, visible in its structure. On the main facade, a trilobed arch portal stands out, its recessed archivolts resting on colonettes decorated with naturalistic motifs, typical of the Manueline period. Above the portal, there is a pierced oculus, allowing light to enter. Inside, the space, although singular, reveals details that captivate the eye. The wooden ceiling, composed of three planes, displays simple paintings set within rectangular frames, notably featuring the Portuguese coat of arms, including the shield and the royal crown.

The chancel, preceded by a few steps, is enriched by two panels of figurative tiles, in blue and white tones, which line the side walls, illustrating scenes of the Virgin with Child. These tiles, of Johannine style, are a testament to the ceramic art of the era. The main altar, in gilded woodwork and white lacquer, complements the decorative richness. In the nave, a holy water font with vegetal decoration and an octagonal baptismal font, with sober lines, enrich the devotional atmosphere. The triumphal arch, slightly pronounced and decorated with rosettes, introduces the chancel with elegance.

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