Chapel of the Cork Oaks

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Viana do Castelo > Ponte de Lima > Ponte de Lima > Arca e Ponte de Lima

Location

Situated on an elevated point in the village of Ponte de Lima, the Capela das Pereiras offers a unique perspective of the surrounding urban landscape. Access to this site is via an imposing front staircase, which in itself invites contemplation.

The chapel stands on a platform that once formed part of the village's ancient wall, giving it a deep historical connection to the original layout of Ponte de Lima. Its isolated and harmonious implantation contributes to its prominence in the local panorama.

A History of Transformations

The Capela das Pereiras, although we observe it today with distinct features, has its roots in 1525, when it was built to replace a hermitage that existed on the site. Over the centuries, the building underwent several significant transformations, adapting to the architectural evolution and the needs of the time.

After the earthquake of 1755, which profoundly marked the country, the chapel underwent a major rebuilding. However, it was a later intervention, in 1818, that gave it its current form, with a significant widening of the nave and the addition of the sacristy, redesigning much of its structure. This religious site was the stage for notable moments, such as the visit of D. Luís I in 1872.

Architectural and Artistic Features

The architecture of the Capela das Pereiras is distinguished by its main façade, facing west, adorned with elements evoking the Baroque style. The play of pilasters and the carved cornice, topped by a stone Latin cross and ornamented with unique "fogaréus" (flame-like finials), are noteworthy. A particularly captivating detail is the coat of arms with family crests that stands out above the portal, testifying to the temple's historical ties with the people of the region.

Inside, with its light-colored walls, the barrel vault ceiling stands out. The chancel still holds traces of sepulchral slabs with coats of arms on the floor and a reredos structure in polychrome carved wood, which, although partial, evokes the original artistic richness of the space. The bell tower, which rises quadrangularly on the left side, is another element that captures attention, remaining curiously unfinished, a characteristic that makes it unique in the local architectural panorama.

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