Sanctuary of the Lord of Perafita

Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary

District: Vila Real > Alijó > Perafita

Location

The Sanctuary of Senhor de Perafita is located in the tranquil village of Perafita, within the municipality of Alijó, in the district of Vila Real. This architectural and religious complex is divided into several parts spread across the central area of the village and the hillside that embraces it.

The main church, the imposing bell tower, and the Casa dos Milagres (House of Miracles) are situated next to the traditional village houses. From this point, a paved path ascends the hillside, leading to the Chapel of Senhor dos Milagres, a fountain, and the Calvary, offering serene views over the rural landscape of the Douro Wine Region and the village itself.

Architecture and Artistic Heritage

Built mostly in the second half of the 18th century, the Sanctuary of Senhor de Perafita is a significant example of Bracarense Rococo architecture, with noticeable influence from masters like André Soares. The church stands out for its octagonal nave, an uncommon architectural solution, which extends into a rectangular chancel.

The main façade, facing west, impresses with its elaborate portal, surmounted by a broken pediment framing the coat of arms of D. Gaspar de Bragança. Inside, three carved altarpieces, the choir with its wooden railing, and a pulpit on a granite corbel can be observed. The chancel ceiling is enriched with paintings depicting the four evangelists and Christ in medallions.

The House of Miracles and Votive Tablets

One of the most captivating elements of the Sanctuary is the Casa dos Milagres (House of Miracles), a two-story annex building that serves as a mirror of popular faith and devotion. On its ground floor, there is a remarkable collection of 94 votive tablets.

These works of popular art, executed in oil on wood and, in some cases, on metal, date from a period between 1758 and 1896. Each is a visual narrative, a thank you or a request for intercession, representing miracles or graces granted, and offer a unique insight into the beliefs and experiences of the community over generations.

The Devotional Path and View

The paved path starting from the House of Miracles leads to the small Capela do Senhor dos Milagres (Chapel of the Lord of Miracles). This polygonal-plan building, crowned by a dome, houses inside a set of images evoking the crucifixion of Christ. Next to the chapel, there is a fountain with rectilinear profiles and a Latin inscription, an integral part of this space of faith.

The descent or ascent along the hillside is also marked by the Calvary, which includes five simple-shaped cruzeiros (stone crosses). This set of elements, dating back to an ancient tradition and which included the original image of Christ Crucified present in the church's main altarpiece, invites introspection and contemplation, while enjoying a wide panoramic view over the village of Perafita.

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