Capela dos Coimbras (Coimbras Chapel), Braga

The construction of the Coimbras Chapel, also known as the Chapel of Our Lady of Conception, dates back to the 16th century, precisely in 1525, under the patronage of Jo茫o Coimbra, who served as the provisor to Archbishop Diogo de Sousa. Jo茫o Coimbra's vision led to the creation of this private chapel, initially dedicated to Our Lady of Conception, and it was designed by the skilled craftsmen known as the builders of the Biscainhos Palace. Its architectural significance is underscored by the fact that it was classified as a National Monument in 1910.

Next to the chapel, you can find the former residence of Jo茫o Coimbra, which still retains its original Manueline features, even though substantial alterations were made to the structure at the beginning of the 20th century. The fa莽ade of the residence proudly displays the Coimbra family coat of arms, symbolizing their historical connection to the complex.

The Coimbras Chapel takes the form of a quadrangular tower, divided into two distinct spaces. The galilee, adorned with Manueline ornaments and statuary crafted by Hodart, serves as the entrance to the chapel. Inside, the interior part designed by Jo茫o de Ru茫o features the traditional main altar and the coat of arms of D. Jo茫o de Coimbra.

The chapel's interior is covered by a ribbed vault, and the walls are adorned with tile images that allude to the Book of Genesis. The exterior sculpting was overseen by Hodart, while the main altar and the statue of "the placing of the Lord in the tomb" are attributed to Jo茫o de Ru茫o. Additionally, the retable is complemented by 18th-century tile paneling featuring designs depicting the creation of the world, including unique depictions of Adam and Eve.

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Sight Name: Capela dos Coimbras (Coimbras Chapel)
Sight Location: Braga, Portugal (See walking tours in Braga)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Historical Religious Sites Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Braga, Portugal

Create Your Own Walk in Braga

Creating your own self-guided walk in Braga is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Historical Religious Sites Walking Tour

Braga is a prominent destination in Portugal's Religious Tourism segment, primarily due to its vibrant Holy Week celebrations and rich ecclesiastical architecture. Indeed, being one of the world's oldest Christian cities, Braga boasts an extensive religious legacy. Much like Rome, it seamlessly interweaves art and spirituality throughout its historic center.

Here, you will find a... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles

Braga Introduction Walking Tour

The history of Braga, Portugal's religious capital, spans millennia. Located in the northern Minho region, this city is also one of the country's oldest, reportedly founded by Bracari Celts.

Braga's origin is closely associated with the Roman conquest in 136 BC, culminating in the establishment of Bracara Augusta in 16 BC, a pivotal location within the newly-formed Gallaecia... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles

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