Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Castle

Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary

District: Viseu > Mangualde > Mangualde > Monte do Castelo

Location

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Castelo rises majestically atop Monte do Castelo, in the locality of Mangualde. Its elevated position offers remarkable panoramic views over the surrounding rural landscape and part of the city, allowing visitors to contemplate the vast region, including the grandeur of the Serra da Estrela in the distance. The atmosphere at the top of the hill is one of remarkable tranquility, inviting rest and appreciation of the surrounding nature.

The sanctuary's atrium, delimited by a granite wall punctuated by pyramids and with benches for rest, completes the visual experience and the sense of serenity that the place provides. This natural and rural setting distinguishes the sanctuary, making it a visual reference point in the landscape of Mangualde.

Origin and Legacy

The history of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Castelo is ancient, dating back to times before the founding of the nation itself, with indications of a pre-Roman castro on the site where the hermitage now stands. The temple we see today is the result of various interventions over the centuries, with its main architectural features being defined between the 18th and 19th centuries. The image of the patron saint, for example, dates back to the 15th century, attesting to the longevity of devotion on this mount.

This place of worship and pilgrimage has attracted faithful and illustrious figures over the years. There are records of pilgrimages since the 15th century, and even members of the Portuguese Royal Family, such as King D. Luís I and Queen D. Maria Pia in the 19th century, and later Queen D. Amélia, visited the sanctuary. The management of the hermitage and its belongings, including the mount, was bequeathed to the Misericórdia and Hospital of Mangualde by the benefactor Conde de Anadia in the 20th century, perpetuating its legacy and importance to the community. The complex was classified as a Monument of Public Interest, recognizing its historical and cultural value.

Architecture and Symbolism

The path to the main sanctuary is an experience in itself, marked by an impressive granite staircase. This staircase, adorned with pinnacles, is divided into several landings, offering moments of pause and contemplation as one ascends. Along the route, there are four chapels dedicated to the life of the Virgin: Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Nossa Senhora da Encarnação, Nossa Senhora da Visitação, and Nossa Senhora da Assunção.

These chapels, with their square plan and pyramidal roofs, are notable for their rococo tiles, which illustrate in a colorful and detailed manner the most significant moments of the Virgin Mary's life. The church, despite its graceful and simple lines, stands out for its tall crenellated tower, which projects over the main facade. Inside, the single nave and the chancel, with their false vaults decorated with neoclassical stucco, house altarpieces and a pulpit of white and gold painted wood carving. In the pavement of the chancel lie the tombs of members of the Anadia family, former administrators of the sanctuary. It is also possible to observe various commemorative plaques of important events and ex-votos, testimonies of faith and graces attributed to the sanctuary over time.

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