Restoring History: The Revitalization of a Chapel

Abstract

This article describes the main rehabilitation works carried out at the Chapel of S. João do Deserto. During the restoration process, non-structural and structural anomalies were identified. The structural ones were causing cracks in the walls. While the Chapel had undergone several interventions over the years, not all of them had been successful, and some problems persisted to this day. A thorough analysis of the structure's behavior was essential to properly address these issues and prevent future damage. A structural reinforcement was carried out at the level of the roof, in addition to the consolidation of the masonry walls and mortars. To maintain the Chapel's original layout and identity, traditional materials and techniques were used whenever possible.