Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viana do Castelo > Paredes de Coura > Coura > Ribeirinho

Location:

The Chapel of Our Lady of Conception is located in the serene Ribeirinho area, in the locality of Coura, Paredes de Coura. Nestled in a predominantly rural environment, the chapel harmoniously integrates with the historical Casa dos Anjos complex, marking the landscape with its discreet yet significant presence.

Origins and Purpose:

This small temple was built in the year 1736. Its construction is due to the initiative of Frutuoso Alves Ferreira, a resident of Penedo. The chapel was conceived not only for devotional practice but also to serve as a point of welcome and assistance for travelers who, at the time, traversed that public road, offering a space for reflection and support to those passing through.

Architecture and Exterior Details:

The chapel features a facade with an aesthetic that reflects its time, built in robust granite masonry. Its walls, predominantly plastered and painted white, contrast with the exposed stone elements such as quoins, moldings, and ornaments. The front, facing west, displays a main door with striking pilasters and grilled windows. Above the entrance, a niche stands out, housing the image of Our Lady of Conception, flanked by small oculus windows. An ornate coat of arms and a cross, flanked by pinnacles, crown the triangular pediment.

The Interior Splendor:

Upon entering the Chapel of Our Lady of Conception, visitors are enveloped by an ambiance that highlights the richness of the Baroque style. Inside, the paintings on the barrel vault stand out, harmonizing with the gilded woodwork. The main altarpiece, in particular, is an element of great beauty, filling the back wall with its grandeur. This work of art, from the Joanine period, is rich in details, with pilasters, vegetal ornaments, figures of putti, and sacred representations, culminating with the image of the patroness. The pulpit also displays remarkable gilded woodwork, enriched with acanthus leaves and small angels, complementing the atmosphere of art and devotion found in this place.

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