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Church · Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto
Capela do Senhor da Pedra
Small 17th-century hexagonal chapel built on a rock at the edge of Miramar beach, south of Gaia, surrounded by the sea at high tide.
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 do Senhor da Pedra
The Capela do Senhor da Pedra is on Miramar beach, on the coast of Vila Nova de Gaia, about 12 km from the center. It was built in the 17th century with a hexagonal plan on a rocky outcrop in the sand.
According to tradition, the site was sacred before Christianity, and the chapel was erected to give a Christian meaning to the old beliefs associated with the rock.
At high tide the sea surrounds the rock and the chapel looks like an island; at low tide you can reach it across the sand. The image of the white chapel against the Atlantic is one of the most photographed on the north coast.
The pilgrimage of Senhor da Pedra usually takes place on Trinity Sunday, between May and June. Around it, Miramar beach has a wooden boardwalk and esplanades.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to an hour; longer if it's a beach day.
Best time
In the late afternoon, with the sun low behind the chapel on clear days. Check the tide table to see the chapel surrounded by the sea.
How to get there
It is on Miramar beach, about 12 km from Gaia center. The Linha do Norte train stops at Miramar, and there are buses from Gaia.
Tip
Combine with a walk along the boardwalks of Gaia's beaches. Beware of wet rocks at high tide.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Capela do Senhor da Pedra
Where is the Capela do Senhor da Pedra?
On Miramar beach, on the coast of Vila Nova de Gaia, about 12 km from the center.
Is the chapel surrounded by the sea?
At high tide the sea surrounds the rock; at low tide you reach it across the sand.
How to get to Miramar?
By train to Miramar station or by bus from Gaia.