Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Vila Real > Mondim de Basto > Cavernelhe > Bairro de Cima
The Chapel of São Bento de Cavernelhe is located in Bairro de Cima, in the locality of Cavernelhe, a small village that is part of the municipality of Mondim de Basto. Integrated into a context that preserves the traditional environment of the region, its presence contributes to the unique character of this area, inviting the discovery of a space of tranquility.
Dating back to the 18th century, the Chapel of São Bento is an example of vernacular religious architecture. It features a longitudinal plan with clean lines, reflecting the simplicity and functionality typical of constructions of that era. This type of edifice is common in the Basto region, integrating harmoniously into the landscape.
The main facade stands out for its upper gable, topped by a cornice and surmounted by a bell tower. The entrance portal, with its straight lintel, lends a touch of sobriety to the ensemble. The side facades are marked by a horizontal cornice over the cornerstones and by rectangular windows, which allow for the illumination of the interior space.
The interior of the chapel reveals a transformation over time, with interventions that altered its original appearance. Currently, the roof is made of cement. However, the space retains elements such as a niche and corbels, which serve to house religious imagery, maintaining the essence of its purpose and inviting a moment of contemplation.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.3932415,-7.854892
Coordinates DMS: 41°23'35.7"N 07°51'17.6"W