Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Vila Real > Alijó > Favaios
The Chapel of São Paio is located in the peaceful village of Favaios, a village with strong ties to winemaking tradition, situated in the municipality of Alijó. This place of worship is positioned along what was an ancient Roman road, which once connected Favaios to Alijó, giving it a deep historical connection with the region's path and development.
Its presence in Favaios contributes to the richness of the village's built heritage, offering visitors a point of interest that integrates into the urban fabric and local history, in an environment that invites careful observation of the past.
Dating back to the year 1639, the Chapel of São Paio was erected in honor of São Paio, a young martyr. This space transcends its religious function to become a cultural landmark, a testament to centuries of devotion and history in the Favaios community. Its existence underscores the importance of faith and historical memory for the region's inhabitants, reflecting values that endure over time.
The chapel is a symbol of local identity, a place where history meets spirituality, inviting reflection on the roots and beliefs of Favaios and its ancestors.
The architecture of the Chapel of São Paio falls within the Mannerist style, characteristic of a period of artistic transition. Its side elevations, or facades, are blind, meaning without openings, and culminate in a cornice finish, a prominent decorative element that crowns the structure. This detail contributes to the simplicity and elegant solidity of the building.
Inside, one of the most notable elements is the carved altarpiece, also in Mannerist style. This wooden sculpted piece, which adorns the main altar, is an example of the artistic mastery of the era and a focal point of the chapel, inviting appreciation of the details and delicacy of the craftsmanship.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.2689416,-7.4947237
Coordinates DMS: 41°16'8.2"N 07°29'41.0"W