Step into this forgotten corner of the city, and you’ll find yourself transported back in time to the 7th century. The chapel, known as Capela de São Frutuoso, stands before you, a testament to the long and rich history of Portugal. Its simple yet elegant design, like a small jewel nestled within a larger church, hints at the dedication of those who raised it.
Standing before you is not merely a chapel but a tomb. Saint Fructuosus, the Bishop of Braga, chose this very spot for his final resting place. His remains were buried within this sacred space, and the chapel was originally dedicated to St. Savior. However, even in death, Saint Fructuosus wasn’t destined to stay in one place. In the 12th century, his body was taken to Santiago de Compostela, where it remained for nearly 900 years. It was only in 1966 that Saint Fructuoso’s remains returned to their original resting place here in the Capela de São Frutuoso.
The chapel’s Greek cross design is unique in Portugal. You can see the influence of the Byzantine era, which the Visigoths brought with them. The chapel has been reconstructed many times over the centuries. The original chapel, dedicated to Saint Savior, was built by the Visigoths, in the form of a Greek cross. It is believed that the chapel was constructed on the site of a Roman villa, perhaps even featuring a temple dedicated to the god Asclepius.
Look up. The rounded tile roof has endured the elements for centuries. The exterior is a mix of granite and limestone, adorned with intricate details such as rope-shape friezes and fleur-de-lis. The main entrance once faced the outside, but it has been altered over time. Today, you can enter Capela de São Frutuoso from the larger church that now surrounds it.
The interior is a beautiful and austere space. The central space is a small chamber, and the walls are whitewashed. The arches are supported by sturdy columns, adorned with intricate carvings. The inner space is further adorned with a series of horseshoe-shaped arches. The granite floor is worn, yet still elegant, and the entire chapel is a constant reminder of its rich and intriguing past.