Cruzeiro House

Location

Located in Arca, in the municipality of Ponte de Lima.

Origin

Built in the 17th century, initially as a manor house.

Expansion

In the 19th century, new buildings and a chapel were added.

Classification

In 1983, it was recognized as a Property of Public Interest.

History

Linked to Álvaro Vaz de Mogueimas, who, in 1689, instituted a morgadio (entailed estate) and the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Monte da Piedade (Our Lady of the Mount of Piety).

Chapel

Planned to be built next to the "cruzeiro" (stone cross) of the farm, with the mandatory holding of masses and religious celebrations.

Religious Heritage

Masses and festivities dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Monte da Piedade, including a sung mass during Easter.

Tradition

The heirs had the obligation to maintain the chapel and ensure perpetual lighting in the main church of Ponte de Lima.