Chapel of Saint Roch
Clervaux
The Chapel of Saint Roch in Pontevedra is a Catholic religious building combining neoclassical architecture with Romanesque features. Originally built near the port of Corvaceiras as a protective symbol against plagues, it was relocated multiple times before settling in its current location in 1861. The chapel was expanded in 1901 and again in the 1960s, featuring a transept and a prominent bell tower on its main façade. Romanesque elements include columns and corbels with varied motifs such as monstrous heads and animal figures, sourced from the former monastery of Casteláns. Inside, the polychrome wooden high altar houses statues of Saint Roch, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and other saints. The chapel plays a key role in local religious culture, especially during the Corpus Christi procession through the fishermen's quarter. Its white ceilings are reminiscent of Portuguese church styles, emphasizing its regional architectural influences.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the chapel during the Corpus Christi procession on August 16th when the image of Saint Roch is paraded through the fishermen's quarter. The site is accessible year-round, with special cultural significance on January 20th during the Vow of the City honoring Saint Sebastian. Booking ahead is not typically required, but checking local schedules for events is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The chapel incorporates Romanesque columns and corbels from the demolished monastery of Casteláns.
- •The motifs on the corbels include diverse forms such as monstrous heads, scallop shells, and animal figures like bears and toads.
- •Saint Sebastian has been honored annually since 1515 during the Vow of the City for protecting Pontevedra from the plague.
- •The chapel's white ceilings are stylistically similar to many Portuguese churches.
- •New bells installed in 2017 are faithful copies of the original 1871 bells.
History
The chapel originated in the Middle Ages as a refuge near the old hospital of Saint Lazarus to protect against plagues.
Initially located by the port of Corvaceiras, it was moved several times before being established in its current site in 1861.
Renovations in 1901 added a transept, and further expansions in the 1950s and 1960s enhanced its structure, including the addition of new bells in 2017 that replicate those from 1871.
Place Guide
Main Façade and Bell Tower19th-20th century
The prominent bell tower on the main façade features the image of Saint Roch and is crowned by segmental arches over the entrance doors, with a large oculus and triangular pediment above the east portal.
Romanesque Corbels and ColumnsMedieval period
Romanesque corbels with varied motifs and columns joined in groups of four form windows on the east façade, originally from the monastery of Casteláns, adding historic architectural value.
Polychrome Wooden High AltarPost-medieval period
Dominating the interior, the altar features a medallion inscribed 'Ave María Purísima' and niches housing statues of Saint Roch, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of the Rosary, Saint Peter, and other saints.
