Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viseu > Tarouca > Santa Bárbara
The Chapel of Santa Bárbara stands on the slope of Mount Santa Bárbara, in a locality of the same name, integrated into the municipality of Tarouca. Its elevated position gives the site a privileged vantage point over the surrounding landscape, namely over the valley and nearby mountains.
Located near Dálvares, this chapel is situated in an environment that combines rural serenity with the imposing mountainous landscape, offering a natural setting inviting contemplation.
This site is of great historical interest, as Mount Santa Bárbara harbors vestiges of an ancient hillfort, popularly known as Castro Rei. It is believed that this area was one of the most remote settlement nuclei in the region, possibly the primitive village of Tarouca.
The presence of the chapel on this secular mount underscores the continuity of human presence and faith throughout the centuries. The charter granted to Castro Rei by D. Afonso III, in 1272, highlights the historical importance and antiquity of this site, where the hermitage is inserted as an enduring testimony.
The Chapel of Santa Bárbara, in its essence as a hermitage, features simple architecture and an atmosphere of seclusion. It is a space that invites tranquility and introspection, in harmony with the nature that surrounds it. The simplicity of its lines contrasts with the richness of the panoramic view enjoyed.
The place, marked by its history and the stunning view, allows for a link with the deepest roots of the territory and a moment of pause amidst the Tarouca nature, for those seeking that connection and serenity.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.0361962,-7.7640774
Coordinates DMS: 41°02'10.3"N 07°45'50.7"W
Weather Santa Bárbara
On-duty Pharmacy Santa Bárbara
