Atilhó Chapel or Saint Margaret's Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Vila Real > Boticas > Atilhó > Alturas do Barroso

Location

The Chapel of Atilhó, also known as Saint Margaret's Chapel, is located in the village of Atilhó, within the Alturas do Barroso area, in the municipality of Boticas. It is situated in a quiet square at the entrance to the village, slightly below street level and adjacent to the local cemetery, offering a serene atmosphere and an authentic perspective on the region's rural life.

Origin and Characterization

This chapel dates back to the 18th century, with indications it was built around 1763, as suggested by an inscription on the building. Since its origin, it has served as a place of worship and devotion, a function it maintains to this day. Over time, the chapel has undergone several interventions that adapted its appearance and structure, revealing its continuous importance to the community of Atilhó.

Exterior Architectural Details

On the exterior, the chapel presents a composition of simple lines, characteristic of the popular religious architecture of its period. The main façade is marked by a discreet rectangular portal, flanked by two narrow slit-like openings. Above the portal, a small circular oculus with an eight-pointed rosette adds a unique decorative detail.

The triangular gable is crowned by a single-window bell-tower, adorned with 'S'-shaped volutes and topped by a central cross and lateral pinnacles. A slight reddish coloration can be observed in the center of the façade, resulting from the continuous action of the bell rope over the years, which lends a visible touch of history. The chapel's cornerstones are defined by pilasters ending in pinnacles, elements that contribute to the solidity of the granite construction. On the side façade, a door and some windows stand out, including one with metallic grating, which together with the rest of the structure, reflects the robustness of traditional construction.

Heritage and Atmosphere

Classified as a Property of Municipal Interest since 1986, the Chapel of Atilhó constitutes an important element of the built heritage of the Alturas do Barroso region. Its presence in a square at the entrance of the village, near the cemetery, creates an atmosphere of introspection and tranquility. It is a place that invites a pause, allowing one to appreciate the simplicity of local architecture and feel the atmosphere of a genuine village, where history and faith intertwine with the landscape.

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