church · Alfredo Chaves, ES
Capela de São Roque
A small chapel built in 1902 on a large rock outcrop, about 450 meters above sea level, by the Italian immigrant Amadio Partele. Every year, in August, it hosts the festival in honor of the saint.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Capela de São Roque
Capela de São Roque (chapel) is a small church on a hilltop in the community of Quarto Território, in the countryside of Alfredo Chaves. It sits on a large rock and can be seen from several points in the municipality.
The chapel was built in 1902 by an Italian immigrant to fulfill a religious vow. The first building was made of wattle and daub. More than a century later, it is still a place of faith for local families.
The big day is August 16, the feast of São Roque. At the patron saint's festival, hundreds of devotees climb the hill on foot, some on horseback, carrying the image of the saint to the chapel. Then comes Mass and a get-together.
Outside the festival, the climb is worth it for the scenery. From the top you see a sea of hills and, on clear days, the view reaches the southern coast of Espírito Santo. The climb is steep and requires some fitness, so the outing is not recommended for people with limited mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside two to three hours, counting the dirt road, the walk up and time at the top.
Best time
In winter, especially in August, when the sky is usually clearer and the São Roque festival takes place; climb in the morning, when it is cooler.
How to get there
It is in the community of Quarto Território, about 14 km from the town of Alfredo Chaves on a dirt road. The last stretch to the chapel is on foot, up a steep hill.
Tip
Bring water, sunscreen and shoes with good grip, because the climb is steep and the top is open, with no shade.
A look at the place
Capela de São Roque in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Capela de São Roque
Where is Capela de São Roque in Alfredo Chaves?
On a hilltop in the community of Quarto Território, about 14 km from town on a dirt road.
Do you have to walk to reach the chapel?
Yes. The last stretch is a steep climb on foot that requires some fitness.
When is the São Roque festival?
Every year on August 16, the saint's day. Devotees climb the hill on foot or on horseback carrying the image to the chapel.
When was the chapel built?
In 1902, by an Italian immigrant fulfilling a religious vow. The first building was made of wattle and daub.
What can you see from the top?
A wide view of the hills of Alfredo Chaves and, on clear days, the southern coast of Espírito Santo.