Our Lady of Piedade Cruise

Category: Religious Architecture > Wayside Cross

District: Vila Real > Chaves > Castelãos

Location:

The Cruzeiro da Senhora da Piedade is located in the tranquil locality of Castelãos, part of the municipality of Chaves. Its presence, in a serene environment, invites pause and contemplation, harmoniously integrating into the local landscape.

This point of interest is situated in an area that allows for a gentle connection with the surrounding parish, offering a glimpse of the peaceful life of the interior of Trás-os-Montes. Its position is discreet, but its structure stands out for its uniqueness and its integration into the region's heritage.

Origin and Historical Legacy:

This wayside cross has a history spanning centuries, with its original construction conjecturally attributed to the 16th century. It thus represents a testament to the devotion and religious art that have manifested in this region over time. It is an element that connects the present to the past, revealing the layers of faith and culture that have shaped the community of Castelãos.

Although the main structure dates from an ancient period, the wayside cross benefits from a more recent porch, built in the 20th century. This addition demonstrates the continuity of care and appreciation for this site, ensuring its preservation and the protection of its more delicate elements for future generations.

Architectural and Artistic Details:

The imposing nature of the wayside cross is given by its granite construction. It rises from a quadrangular base, transitioning into a truncated pyramid shape. The monolithic shaft features faceted work that gives it a unique elegance before culminating in a cross with a rectangular section.

In terms of artistic aspect, the cross exhibits a notable peculiarity: its main face, facing the approaching viewer, appears empty. However, on the posterior face, the one that turns towards the path, the moving representation of Our Lady of Pity is revealed, sculpted holding the dead Christ, standing out for the polychrome painting that gives it remarkable realism and expressiveness.

The Protective Porch:

The wayside cross is framed by a robust porch, designed for its protection and to offer a space for reflection. This structure is supported by four massive granite pillars, with a quadrangular section that widens at the lower part, giving them greater solidity and presence. The porch is enclosed by a railing and an iron gate, which discreetly delimit the space.

The exterior roof of the porch is a hip roof, which complements the aesthetic of the ensemble. Inside, the ceiling, made of wooden panels, features a blue-toned painting, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity for those who stop there, inviting introspection and appreciation of the work.

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