THE HERMITAGE OF OUR LADY OF SOCORRO

Closer to heaven, away from daily life, the summit of Serra do Socorro shows its Christian credentials in its Manueline hermitage, the most ancient parts of which date back to the first half of the 16th century.

In the middle of the 18th century, a carved and gilded altarpiece was constructed; the walls were lined with hand painted tiles representing the Evangelists and depicting other images inspired by the sculptures in the Palace Monastery at Mafra.

Around 1820, the last notable changes were made. The old porch was enclosed, access to the chapel was restricted to the triumphal arch and an artistic depiction in praise of the Virgin Mary was added.