Our Lord of Miracles Cruise

Category: Religious Architecture > Wayside Cross

District: Vila Real > Chaves > Santo Estêvão

Location:

The Cruzeiro Nosso Senhor dos Milagres (Our Lord of Miracles Cross) stands in the picturesque locality of Santo Estêvão, an integral part of the municipality of Chaves. It is situated on a quadrangular platform that offers a view of the surroundings, near an old bridge with the river flowing in its vicinity. This space is delimited by a wall with iron gates and invites relaxation through the stone benches arranged around it.

A Historical and Devotional Testimony

This cruzeiro, dating from the 19th century, more precisely from 1831, represents a landmark of faith and community initiative. Its construction was driven by popular will, reflecting the devotion of local inhabitants to the Lord of Miracles. Since its origin, the cruzeiro has maintained its religious function, serving as a point of reference and worship for the population of Santo Estêvão.

Artistic and Architectural Details

Built predominantly in granite, with iron elements in the railings, the Cruzeiro Nosso Senhor dos Milagres exhibits a neoclassical style notable for its decorative richness. The base rests on two quadrangular and stepped tiers, supporting a parallelepipedal pedestal whose faces are cushioned with lozenges, where the inscription "Nosso Senhor dos Milagres" can be read.

The shaft of the column is worked with one-third engraved in lozenges and the remaining part fluted, culminating in a Corinthian style capital. The cross, with parallelepipedal arms and a pyramidal finial, hosts an expressive image of the crucified Christ, sculpted with realistic anatomical proportions and set within a cartouche. The details and quality of execution lend this work particular artistic interest.

Atmosphere for Contemplation

The space surrounding the cruzeiro, with its platform and stone benches, invites quietude and contemplation. Its proximity to the river and the calm atmosphere of Santo Estêvão make this an ideal spot for a moment of reflection or simply to appreciate the serenity of the landscape. It is an invitation to discover a small treasure of Trás-os-Montes' religious and architectural heritage.

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