Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel
District: Setúbal > Moita > Gaio-Rosário > Urbanização Alto do Gaio
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary is strategically located in the town of Gaio-Rosário, in the municipality of Moita and the district of Setúbal. Its setting, in an urban area known as Urbanização Alto do Gaio, features a landscaped square that provides a tranquil environment and, in certain spots, a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The history of this chapel dates back to the year 1532, having been built on the initiative of D. Cosme Anes de Macedo, a nobleman connected to the Royal House. Initially, it was dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Over the centuries, the chapel has undergone various interventions and alterations, most notably the reconstructions required after the damage caused by the 1755 Earthquake, which profoundly marked Portugal's built heritage.
Its architecture reflects a distinct Manueline style, punctuated by subtle Gothic details. The main portal is one of its most notable features, adorned with intricate natural motifs that reveal the artistic delicacy of the era. The main façade is further enriched by the presence of an oculus, which adds balance and light to the building's exterior, making it a prominent feature in the Gaio-Rosário landscape.
The interior of the chapel has a simplicity that invites introspection, with a painted wooden ceiling that contributes to the serene and welcoming atmosphere. The natural lighting is subtle, enhancing the beauty of its features. One of the main points of interest lies in the 18th-century tiles that cover the altar area, depicting the Virgin and Child, which are a remarkable testament to the art of Portuguese tilework. Inside, there are also holy water fonts and a baptismal font, both with designs that echo the tradition and history of the site, demonstrating its religious function over time.
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary is recognized for its significant historical and architectural value, having been classified as a Monument of Public Interest in 2012. This classification underscores the chapel's importance to the region's cultural and religious heritage, ensuring the preservation of a significant part of its memory and identity for future generations and for all who visit this site.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.677947276583026,-9.011059880407169
Coordinates DMS: 38°40'40.6"N 09°00'39.8"W
Weather Gaio-Rosário
On-duty Pharmacy Gaio-Rosário
