Question: What if these walls could talk? The Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios has stories etched into its very stones. This chapel stands as a testament to faith and resilience. It has a deep connection to the seafaring community of Alfama.
Let’s journey back to the early 16th century. Around 1517, the Irmandade de São Pedro Telmo, a brotherhood of fishermen and sailors, decided to build this sacred space. They dedicated it to the Holy Spirit. Hence, it was initially known as the Ermida do Espírito Santo.
But how did it become the Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios? Legend says an image of the Virgin Mary was found in a well nearby. The waters of the well became known for their miraculous healing powers. People came to implore the Virgin for remedies to their ailments. This led to the chapel’s invocation shifting to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. The name of the Holy Spirit slowly faded from memory.
In 1551, the Irmandade expanded its charitable work by building a hospital next to the chapel. This hospital played a vital role in caring for abandoned children. The Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios became a beacon of hope for the vulnerable.
The 17th century brought further additions. The sacristy, the house of dispatch and other dependencies were built. The chapel underwent remodeling in 1694. Disaster struck in 1755. The Great Lisbon Earthquake caused widespread destruction. The Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios suffered severe damage. It had to be rebuilt. Restoration work finished in 1757. The hospital was never rebuilt.
Look closely at the architecture. The main facade features a Manueline portal. It showcases a polilobed arch adorned with plant decorations. Above it, see the shield with the dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit. The portal is a classified National Monument since 1910. The chapel is a Property of Public Interest.
Inside, the Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios has a single nave without a transept. The ceiling is covered with stucco. The chancel is short with a rectangular layout. The nave walls are decorated with 18th-century tiles. The chancel has an altarpiece. It features painted panels attributed to the workshop of Gregório Lopes. A unique feature is the location of the house of dispatch. It occupies the floor above the nave.
Notice the two altars. One is dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Conceição with Santo António and São José. The other is dedicated to São Joaquim with Nossa Senhora da Piedade and São Sebastião. The main altar displays Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. It is an unassuming image with a pleasant expression. São Pedro and São Pedro Gonçalo flank it.
Today, the Ermida de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios stands as a symbol of faith and history. It connects us to the lives of the Alfama fishermen. It reminds us of the power of belief. It echoes the resilience of Lisbon. The chapel is a testament to community and devotion. Its walls have witnessed centuries of prayers and hopes. Take a moment to appreciate its enduring spirit.