Capela da Rainha Santa Isabel

This little chapel, almost lost amongst the cobblestone streets, holds a surprising story. Here, in the Capela da Rainha Santa Isabel, we’re not just looking at a place of worship but a monument to resilience and a powerful woman. Built in the 18th century, it was dedicated to Queen Saint Isabel of Portugal. Inside, you’ll find a sculpture of her from the same century, a testament to her unwavering devotion. But the story goes deeper. In the 1930s, the chapel fell into disrepair. It was a time of hardship, and the local farmers lost their crops to a devastating hailstorm. Fortunately, the minister of finance provided financial aid, and the chapel was restored. For a while, it even became known as the “Chapel of Our Lady of the Hailstorm” as a symbol of their relief. Today, you can see the results of that restoration. The chapel is filled with sculptures of Saint Joseph holding the baby Jesus, Our Lady, Santa Isabel, Santa Rita, and Our Lady of Fatima. And there’s a wooden choir loft you can reach by climbing the stairs on the right. This chapel is more than just a place of worship. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the unwavering spirit of the Portuguese people, embodied by the Queen Saint Isabel, her legacy, and the story she holds.