Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary
District: Vila Real > Chaves > Ervededo > São Caetano
Located in the São Caetano area, in the locality of Ervededo, municipality of Chaves, the Sanctuary of São Caetano offers a rural and pleasant environment. Situated on the slopes of the Serra da Panadeira, about 13 kilometers from the city of Chaves, this space is distinguished by its vast wooded area, with lush trees that invite tranquility. Its proximity to the Spanish border, a few kilometers away, highlights its unique position in the region.
The Sanctuary is set within an extensively wooded park, providing a serene space for those seeking moments of quietude. The surrounding area, once part of the ancient Oso and bordering the historic Way of Saint James, reveals its relevance as a point of support and passage since remote times.
The history of the Sanctuary of São Caetano has its roots in the Visigothic period. In the 11th century, it is believed that a Benedictine monastery of São Paio existed nearby, marking the antiquity of religious presence at the site. Archaeological discoveries, including a valuable Roman treasure with coins from the 2nd to 4th centuries and a medieval necropolis dated between the 10th and 13th centuries, evidence continuous and multifaceted occupation since Antiquity.
Over the centuries, the Sanctuary's architectural complex has been shaped by various interventions, with buildings dating from the 16th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Its cultural importance is underscored by its mention in the diaries of prominent figures, such as the writer Miguel Torga, who found in this place a source of inspiration and reflection.
The Sanctuary of São Caetano is a complex composed of several structures, each with its own charm and history. Particularly noteworthy is an older chapel, often referred to as the Chapel of Miracles, which features a portico and a perfect arch portal, housing a Mannerist high altar inside. The cross crowning the pediment of this chapel is adorned with various symbols of the Passion of Christ, giving it a unique detail.
Adjacent to it stands a larger 19th-century chapel, built in 1871, whose façade is distinguished by its double bell tower and interiors displaying ornate polychrome carving. The complex also includes a small octagonal chapel, notable for its simplicity and the beauty of its stonework. The sanctuary's characteristic niche fountain, also from the 19th century and dated 1871, replaced an older version and serves as a reference point and a place of faith for visitors.
Dedicated to Saint Cajetan, an Italian saint whose feast day is celebrated annually on August 7th or the first Sunday thereafter, the Sanctuary is the heart of one of the most expressive pilgrimages in the municipality of Chaves. This festival annually gathers thousands of faithful, from both Portugal and Spain, many of whom undertake long journeys on foot as a demonstration of deep faith and devotion.
One of the most venerated and sought-after elements is the water from the sanctuary's fountain. Its waters, credited with healing properties for various ailments, are a stopping point for those seeking relief and spiritual renewal. The popular legend is perpetuated by an inscription on the fountain itself: "É, DE, S. CAETANO / ESTA FONTE PURA / QUEM NELA BEBER / DE SEUS MALES CURA" (This pure fountain belongs to Saint Cajetan; whoever drinks from it will be cured of their ailments). It is also traditional to associate Saint Cajetan with the cure of 'cravos' or warts, with devotees often offering flowers (carnations) as a vow and crawling around the smaller chapel on their knees as a sign of a promise.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.828202104348, -7.5389440130435
Coordinates DMS: 41°49'41.5"N 07°32'20.2"W
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