Chapel of Our Lady of Grace

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Vila Real > Peso da Régua > Peso da Régua > Cabana

Location

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça is located in a high area of the locality of Cabana, belonging to Peso da Régua. It is situated in Largo da Feira (Fair Square), a cobblestone-paved area that evokes a traditional atmosphere. Its elevated position gives it a certain prominence in the surrounding landscape, characteristic of the Douro's wine villages. In the center of this square, directly in front of the chapel, stands an old stone cross.

A Journey Through Time and Architecture

Built in the 18th century, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Graça displays an architectural style that combines elements of Mannerism and Baroque. Its structure has a simple longitudinal plan, distinguished by its whitewashed facades painted white, with dark gray details. The main facade, oriented southwest, is crowned by a triangular pediment and a Latin cross, and features a niche housing the stone image of Nossa Senhora da Graça, patroness of the temple. Above the portal, an azulejo panel, dated 1940, displays an image of the Virgin and an inscription. On the left side facade, a bell tower rises, adding a picturesque touch to the ensemble.

The Richness of the Interior

Upon entering the chapel, one discovers an interior with white walls, a ceramic floor, and a curved wooden ceiling, which contributes to a feeling of welcome. The main highlight of the space is the Baroque main altarpiece, a piece of polychrome and gilded carving of great beauty. This altarpiece, organized into three axes, is enriched by decorated pilasters, Solomonic columns, and corbels supporting atlantes figures. The central niche, painted with the representation of a firmament, houses the throne for the sacred imagery. Elements such as full-relief angels and cherubim halos adorn its attic, emphasizing the devotion and artistic refinement of the era.

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