Our Lady of Lapa Chapel

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Viseu > Sernancelhe > Quintela > Lapa

Location

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Lapa is located in the Lapa area, in the village of Quintela, belonging to the municipality of Sernancelhe. The building is situated in a natural and isolated setting, on a rocky plateau of the mountain range with the same name. This environment, marked by imposing granite outcrops, provides a unique backdrop for the chapel. In its surroundings, one can observe several stone crosses dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, and an old fountain, the Fonte dos Clérigos (Clerics' Fountain), elements that complement the local landscape.

The Roots of a Devotion

The history of the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Lapa is ancient and deeply connected to a local legend dating back to the 15th century. According to tradition, the image of Our Lady of Lapa was found by a mute shepherdess, named Joana, hidden among the rocks, in a place that would become the heart of the sanctuary. The primitive chapel was erected in 1498, but the building seen today is the result of a 17th-century construction, driven and promoted by the Jesuits, who greatly contributed to the expansion and consolidation of pilgrimages to this site.

Architecture and the Heart of the Temple

The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Lapa has been classified as a Building of Public Interest since 1951, distinguished by its architecture that combines Mannerist and Baroque elements. The main façade, facing west, features a round arch portal, flanked by columns, culminating in a triangular pediment. Inside, the nave walls are covered with polychrome tile panels, in shades of blue and yellow, creating a visually rich atmosphere. In the chancel, the high choir and carved altarpieces stand out, some displaying the exuberance of the Baroque style. However, the most unique element of the chapel is its chancel, which integrates the large original rock outcrop (the 'lapa' itself) where, according to legend, the image of the Virgin was found. It is in this space that the venerated image of Our Lady of Lapa is located, along with a nativity scene embedded in the rock.

A Legacy of Faith and Pilgrimage

Throughout the centuries, the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Lapa established itself as one of the most important pilgrimage centers in the Iberian Peninsula, attracting pilgrims from diverse origins and cultures. The devotion to Our Lady of Lapa, born in this place in Quintela, spread throughout Portugal, Brazil, and other former Portuguese colonies, testifying to its profound influence. This historical and religious significance is celebrated annually on August 15th, a date when thousands of faithful gather for the Feast of Our Lady of Lapa, keeping alive a secular tradition of faith and promises.

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