Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viseu > Sátão > Pedrosas
The Chapel of Pedrosas is situated in the serene village of the same name, integrated into the municipality of Sátão. The surrounding environment reflects the characteristic tranquility of the region's rural setting, inviting a moment of pause and contemplation, in the heart of an area that preserves its identity.
This chapel stands out as a remarkable example of Joanine Baroque, a style that flourished in Portugal during the 18th century. One of its most interesting aspects lies in the striking contrast between its exterior sobriety and interior richness. The facade, with more restrained lines and a Mannerist character, is marked by the sobriety of white and granite, preparing the visitor for the unexpected splendor revealed within. Inside, exuberant gilded carving dominates the space, harmonizing with blue and white figurative tiles and paintings that adorn both the ceiling and walls, creating an environment of great artistic wealth.
Among its most valuable elements is its unique pipe organ, a piece of exceptional artistic and historical merit, conceived by the master organ builder Francisco António Solha.
The construction of the chapel dates back to the 18th century, erected at the initiative of Canon Luís Bandeira Galvão. The current building replaced a previous chapel, its construction being the fulfillment of a vow made by the canon to his uncle, who shared the same name and was a member of a confraternity dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Esperança (Our Lady of Hope). This legacy of faith and history has bestowed upon the chapel a grandeur that has been highlighted over the centuries in various publications and studies.
The chapel's relevance in the national heritage landscape is recognized. Since February 2002, the building has been classified as a Property of Public Interest. Much earlier, in September 1978, its unique pipe organ had already received the same distinction, attesting to its intrinsic artistic value. Its importance is not limited to official classification; the site is frequently cited in reference works on heritage and religiosity, which attest to its artistic and spiritual grandeur.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.7458277,-7.7703917
Coordinates DMS: 40°44'45.0"N 07°46'13.4"W