Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate

Beneath this very arch of the majestic Aqueduto das Águas Livres, you’ll find the Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate. This charming chapel, nestled beneath the aqueduct’s arches, is more than just a picturesque sight. It’s a testament to the French silk artisans who traveled far from home to work in Lisbon’s Royal Silk Factory. In 1768, these skilled artisans, longing for a taste of home, built the Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate. They dedicated it to Our Lady of Montserrat, their patron saint, echoing their reverence for the Black Madonna enshrined in the mountains of Catalonia. Step inside, and you’ll discover a world of understated elegance. The Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate’s simple, rectangular design belies the artistry within. Notice the wooden altars, masterfully painted to resemble rich marble. Lift your gaze to the dome, where a tempera painting swirls above, crafted with an unusual ingredient: transformed shells. These shells, interwoven with wreaths of wildflowers, speak to the Virgin Mary’s purity and the artisans’ resourcefulness. The Capela de Nossa Senhora de Monserrate stands as a symbol of faith, artistry, and the enduring bonds forged across borders.