Chapel of our Lady of the Bulwarks, Mozambique Island
A tour of the Chapel of our Lady of the Bulwarks, Capela de Nossa Senhora do Baluarte in Portuguese, offers kids insight to Mozambique Island's early history as well as its colonial prominence. Built in 1522, the Chapel is said to be the oldest European building in the southern hemisphere and one of the best examples of Manueline (also spelled Manuelino) architecture in Mozambique. As you tour the Chapel look for examples sea shapes; the Manueline style is a celebration of Portugal’s 16th century seafaring ways.
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Manueline Style
Manueline, also spelled Manuelino, is a unique style of art and architecture. Inaugurated by the Portuguese King Dom Manuel I, this 16th century art form is noted for its twisted columns, vibrant colors and usage of marine shapes such as coral, shells, ropes and sails. And while the style lasted only 50 years it represented a significant break from the country's Gothic past. Portugal's maritime adventures were represented in art for the first time in the Manueline style. As you tour the Chapel of our Lady of the Bulwarks on Mozambique Island look for shapes that are reminiscent of the sea. If you look closely you may also see a resemblance to the works of Spanish artist Salvador Dali. Some critics believe Dali was influenced by the Manueline style. |
