Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viana do Castelo > Ponte de Lima > São Pedro d'Arcos > Arcos
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows is located in the Arcos area, in the village of São Pedro d'Arcos, municipality of Ponte de Lima. Set in a tranquil and serene environment, its location holds an interesting historical context, as it was once situated near ancient routes, such as the Roman road and the Way of St. James. This place offers a space of quietude, ideal for a reflective visit.
The construction of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows dates back to the 16th century, a result of the devotion of Gaspar Esteves and his wife. Inside, images dating from the period of its original construction can be observed, revealing the sacred art of the era. Despite its 16th-century foundation, the chapel underwent a significant intervention in 1970, which altered its orientation: the façade, which originally faced west, was reoriented to face south, adapting to the dynamics of the surrounding space.
More than a simple religious building, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows is deeply connected to the history and traditions of São Pedro d'Arcos. In the 16th century, during a plague epidemic, the local population implored the intercession of Our Lady of the Snows, promising annual festivities in her honour. With the end of the disease, popular devotion intensified, and the annual festivals became a solemn landmark. One of the most peculiar legends associated with this place is that of a miracle that recurred annually until 1913: a man, after fulfilling religious precepts, would enter a blazing oven where a large wheat cake was being baked, managing to emerge unharmed. This feat, performed before the image of the Virgin, cemented the community's belief and faith in their patroness.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.7585578,-8.6668088
Coordinates DMS: 41°45'30.8"N 08°40'0.5"W
Weather São Pedro d'Arcos
On-duty Pharmacy São Pedro d'Arcos
