Bones, Tiles & a Clifftop Chapel

A chapel of bones, a chapel on the cliff and a church covered in blue tiles.

Three small churches, each with its own strange or lovely story: a chapel lined with bones, another on a headland between two beaches, and a church covered entirely in tiles. It is a quiet afternoon with short drives, and entry fees are paid separately. Made for lovers of art, small details and curious tales.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Capela dos Ossos de Alcantarilha

   Behind the parish church in Alcantarilha, a small chapel has its walls, ceiling and altar lined with carefully arranged human skulls and bones. It is said to hold the remains of more than fifteen hundred people. The visit is short and sober, more reflection than spectacle, a reminder that life is brief. Take a wander through the village lanes afterwards. Visitors are asked to keep quiet and respectful, and it is worth checking it is open before you go.

2. 

   2

   Senhora da Rocha

   In Porches, a tiny white chapel stands on a headland between two beaches, with the sea on both sides. A short path leads up to it, and from the churchyard you can see the coast and cliffs stretching from Armação de Pêra towards Carvoeiro. Below, the sea has carved caves into the rock. Afterwards, head down to one of the beaches for a swim. Late afternoon gives the whitewash a warm glow and is the best time for photographs.

3. 

   3

   Igreja de São Lourenço (Almancil)

   From outside it is a simple white church on a hill in Almancil; inside, the walls and dome are entirely covered in blue and white tiles. The panels tell the life and martyrdom of Saint Lawrence scene by scene, inviting you to read the story slowly. It is a short stop, but one that stays with you. Admission is paid separately. Sit on a pew for a few minutes and let your eyes travel up the walls from bottom to top.

The essentials

Duration

4 h · Afternoon

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Lovers of art and curious stories.

The route