Sanctuary of Our Lady of Viso

Category: Religious Architecture > Sanctuary

District: Viseu > Nelas > Carvalhal Redondo e Aguieira

Location

The Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Viso is located in the parish of Carvalhal Redondo e Aguieira, in the municipality of Nelas. Its name, "Viso", already suggests an emphasis on its elevated position, giving it a distinctive characteristic in the landscape. The surroundings are marked by a predominantly rural landscape, inviting tranquility and contemplation. From this point, it is possible to enjoy a serene observation of the surrounding countryside, in an environment that fosters quietude and reflection.

Memory and Devotion

The history of the Sanctuary dates back to the 17th century, the period when its chapel was built. Since its genesis, this place has been intrinsically linked to the Brotherhood of Nossa Senhora do Viso, which attests to a tradition of faith and devotion spanning centuries. One of the most valuable elements is the image of Nossa Senhora do Viso, a 16th-century piece, sculpted in Ançã Stone and later polychromed. Its antiquity precedes the construction of the current chapel, underlining the deep and continuous veneration in this space.

Artistic and Architectural Details

Inside the Sanctuary, the single nave is covered by barrel vaulted ceilings, notable for their painted ornamentation, which extends harmoniously to the main chapel. In the side chapel, there are displayed processional images of Christ and Nossa Senhora das Dores (Our Lady of Sorrows), which represent significant examples of the sacred art of the region. The altars, elaborated in the 18th century, feature the distinctive Rococo style, adding a layer of sophistication and artistic detail to the ensemble and complementing the venerable 16th-century sculpture of Nossa Senhora do Viso.

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