Art and Popular Religiosity: The “Alminhas” from Sabugal, Portugal

Abstract

This article examines the “Alminhas” of the municipality of Sabugal in the Beira Alta region (Portugal) as expressions of popular religiosity and cultural heritage. The main goal of the study is to survey and analyse the iconography of tile panels found in 27 preserved oratories within the area. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving bibliographic research and fieldwork conducted across the 30 parishes of the municipality. This fieldwork involved taking photographs, georeferencing sites and collecting local testimonies. The research revealed that Christian themes, primarily focused on saving souls in purgatory, are prevalent, particularly images of Christ crucified, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and angels interceding for the souls in flames. There are also newer devotional motifs, such as Our Lady of Fátima. The findings emphasise the importance of these structures as symbols of local identity and evidence of deep-rooted religious customs, although they are currently threatened by deterioration, vandalism and undocumented changes. This work helps to recognise the “Alminhas” as an essential part of Portuguese religious and popular artistic heritage.