Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viseu > Vouzela > Vouzela > Nossa Senhora do Castelo
Situated on one of the hills of the imposing Caramulo Mountain Range, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Castelo is located in the Nossa Senhora do Castelo area, in Vouzela. This site offers a vast and stunning panorama over the surrounding landscape, namely the Caramulo mountain range and the valley where the Vouga river meanders.
Access to the chapel is via a long staircase that ascends through dense vegetation. Although discreet, its elevated position allows for an experience of serenity and contemplation, away from the urban bustle.
Despite the name "Castelo" (Castle), which evokes the existence of an ancient fortress, little remains today of the medieval castle that once dominated this Lafões region, around the 11th century. The area surrounding the chapel has undergone several modifications over time, resulting from successive construction and expansion works of the chapel itself, as well as the installation of modern infrastructures.
However, the history of the site is rich. Recent archaeological studies have made it possible to uncover the past of this area. On the slopes of the hill, about 150 meters away, it is still possible to observe two anthropomorphic graves carved into the rock, vestiges from ancient times that complement the historical narrative of this site.
The stairway ascent to the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Castelo provides a tranquil transition from the terrestrial environment to the elevated refuge. At the base of this staircase, there is a round fountain, adorned with the emblem of Vouzela. This fountain, dating from the early 20th century, was designed by the renowned architect Raul Lino, adding a touch of elegance to the starting point of the ascent.
The journey is an opportunity to appreciate the vegetation and tranquility that precede the arrival at the top, where the reward is the privileged view and the quiet atmosphere that the chapel offers its visitors.
The Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Castelo is located within a dense and rich forest area, recognized as being of Public Interest since 1959. This natural environment is one of the great attractions of the site, still preserving some specimens of centenary trees that bear witness to the passage of time.
The forest surroundings offer a space for rest and appreciation of nature, inviting moments of quietude and reflection. It is an invitation to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds this hermitage, feeling the mystical aura emanating from the forest and the landscape.
Throughout the year, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Castelo maintains its serene and contemplative atmosphere. However, on August 15th, the place transforms and fills with life. It is on this day that the Assumption of Our Lady is celebrated, and the chapel is the setting for one of the most traditional pilgrimages in Vouzela.
This annual event is a moment of unity and celebration, attracting people from all over the region, keeping alive an important cultural and religious tradition linked to this hill and its chapel.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.7214012,-8.0956669
Coordinates DMS: 40°43'17.0"N 08°05'44.4"W