
Capela Nossa Senhora das Neves
A historic chapel in Brazil's Vale dos Vinhedos, famously built with wine instead of water due to a drought.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vineyards bloom, perfect light

Capela Nossa Senhora das Neves
Best Time
Vineyards bloom, perfect light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic chapel in Brazil's Vale dos Vinhedos, famously built with wine instead of water due to a drought.
"A truly unique historical gem, built with wine – a testament to ingenuity and local pride!"

📸 Capture the History
Don't miss photographing the unique walls made with wine! It's a story in every brick.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
The chapel is nestled in the beautiful Vale dos Vinhedos. Take time to walk around and enjoy the vineyard views.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Wine Mortar
Chapel walls
Witness the unique construction where wine was mixed with clay to bind bricks, a testament to local resourcefulness.

Vale dos Vinhedos Setting
Surrounding vineyards
Enjoy the picturesque scenery of rolling vineyards that frame this historic chapel, offering a serene atmosphere.

Architectural Charm
Chapel exterior
Admire the simple yet charming architecture of this early 20th-century chapel, a symbol of Italian colonization.
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Planning Your Visit
A Chapel Built with Wine
Best Time to Visit for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss photographing the unique walls made with wine! It's a story in every brick.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
The chapel is nestled in the beautiful Vale dos Vinhedos. Take time to walk around and enjoy the vineyard views.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The chapel might be closed on certain days or for events. Check in advance to avoid disappointment.
🍷 Learn the Story
Ask locals or read up on the fascinating tale of its construction with wine – it's the highlight!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss photographing the unique walls made with wine! It's a story in every brick.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
The chapel is nestled in the beautiful Vale dos Vinhedos. Take time to walk around and enjoy the vineyard views.
🕰️ Check Opening Hours
The chapel might be closed on certain days or for events. Check in advance to avoid disappointment.
🍷 Learn the Story
Ask locals or read up on the fascinating tale of its construction with wine – it's the highlight!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique history of Capela Nossa Senhora das Neves, particularly its construction using wine. The chapel's picturesque setting in the Vale dos Vinhedos and its architectural charm are frequently praised. Some visitors note that it can be closed unexpectedly, so checking ahead is advised.
"Fica no Vale dos Vinhedos, muito bonita e sua história é bem interessante pois foi construída com vinho ao invés de água."
Leandro Landmeier
"A Capela de Nossa Senhora das Neves, também conhecida como Capela das Neves, é uma capela católica romana, localizada no município de Bento Gonçalves, no Brasil, construída no início do século XX. A capela é notável por ter sido construída com vinho da região, constituindo-se como uma das atrações turísticas do município,e um símbolo da colonização do Vale dos Vinhedos.
A capela primitiva era em madeira, com cobertura em tabuinhas, do tipo scándole. Posteriormente, a comunidade, constituída sobretudo por colonos italianos e seus descendentes, decidiu construí-la em alvenaria, com recurso a tijolos artesanais.Os colonos faziam a argamassa com barro, abriam uma vala no chão, colocavam terra e água dentro, pisando depois o barro com os pés. As mulheres ajudavam no transporte da água em baldes, para a molhar a terra.
Durante a construção da capela, uma forte estiagem obrigou à paragem dos trabalhos,pois a água era escassa e no morro onde estava sendo construída a capela não havia fontes.Os moradores decidiram então doar algum do vinho produzido na região, por forma a substituir a água e permitir a retomada dos trabalhos. O vinho, misturado com palha de trigo, foi então usado para formar a liga necessária à junção dos tijolos da capela.
Segundo recorda Elias Giordani, nascido em Bento Gonçalves em 1918 e aí residente, que participou da construção da capela.
“ havia muito vinho e pouca água, muito vinho de sobra, porque a safra estava pronta e precisava-se do vasilhame; pouca água, porque no morro onde está a igreja não há fontes. Então, alguém teve a ideia de molhar o barro e amassa-lo com vinho, por ser mais cómodo""
Rômulo Arioli
"Capela com bela história.
Durante a construção da atual capela, que substituiu a anterior que era de madeira, ocorreu uma grande estiagem, o que prejudicou o uso da água. A solução foi usar vinho para juntar com a palha de milho que serviu para juntar os tijolos. Bela capela em construção eclética. Praça no entorno caprichada.
Na nossa passagem por lá seguimos todos os protocolos de segurança contra o covid e no dia de nossa visita a mesma estava fechada, portanto só foi possível registrar o entorno da mesma e fazer registros da atração. Para quem aprecia atrações de cunho arquitetônico e religioso em locais afastados de grandes centros, indico."
Mara Hermes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The chapel is located in the Vale dos Vinhedos, near Bento Gonçalves. The best way to reach it is by car, as it's part of the wine route. Many visitors rent a car or join a guided tour that includes stops in the Vale dos Vinhedos.
Public transport options directly to the chapel are limited. It's recommended to use ride-sharing services or taxis from Bento Gonçalves if you don't have a car, though this can be more expensive.
Exploring the Vale dos Vinhedos by car allows you to visit multiple wineries and attractions at your own pace. Cycling is also a popular option for those who enjoy scenic rides through the vineyards.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the chapel, especially for visitors coming by car. It's generally sufficient for the number of visitors, but can fill up during peak seasons.
Absolutely! The chapel is a popular stop on day trips from Bento Gonçalves and other towns in the Serra Gaúcha region. Many wine tours are designed to include this historical site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Capela Nossa Senhora das Neves is generally free. It's a historical site open for visitors to appreciate its unique construction and history.
The chapel's opening hours can vary, and it may be closed for services or private events. It's advisable to check locally or with tourist information centers before your visit.
While the chapel itself is free to enter, visiting nearby wineries for tastings or tours will typically involve fees. Exploring the vineyard grounds is usually free unless a specific tour is booked.
Yes, the chapel is accessible year-round. However, the surrounding vineyard scenery changes with the seasons, offering different visual appeals in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor inside the chapel.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the chapel, especially with the vineyard backdrop, is ideal. Look for details in the brickwork that hint at the wine used in its construction. The surrounding landscape offers panoramic views.
Photography inside religious buildings is often restricted or discouraged out of respect. It's best to check for signage or ask a local attendant before taking photos inside.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most beautiful light for capturing the chapel and vineyards. Midday sun can be harsh, creating strong shadows.
Drone regulations vary by location and can be strict, especially near private properties or religious sites. It's essential to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the chapel and the wider vineyard landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior shots if permitted, and a tripod can help with low-light conditions.
🍽️ 🍷 Food & Dining
Yes, the Vale dos Vinhedos is renowned for its gastronomy. You'll find numerous wineries offering excellent restaurants and cafes, many with stunning vineyard views.
Expect Italian-influenced cuisine, reflecting the region's heritage. Dishes often feature pasta, polenta, local cheeses, and, of course, dishes paired with the region's wines.
Absolutely! Wine tasting is a primary activity in the Vale dos Vinhedos. Most wineries offer various tasting experiences, often paired with local snacks. Booking in advance is recommended.
Some wineries or designated areas might offer picnic facilities. It's a lovely way to enjoy the scenery with local produce and wine. Inquire with specific establishments.
Popular choices include Miolo, Casa Valduga, and Salton, among many others. Each offers unique experiences, from historical tours to modern culinary delights. Research based on your preferences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during seasons when the vineyards are lush and green, or when the autumn colors are vibrant, as this provides a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options might be more geared towards adults, though some restaurants are family-friendly.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Seek out wineries that offer in-depth tours, barrel tastings, or unique blends. Many establishments pride themselves on their history and winemaking philosophy, providing rich insights. Don't forget to sample the local sparkling wines and reds, which are specialties of the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Construction: Wine as Mortar
The settlers mixed the clay with wine, creating a binding agent strong enough to hold the bricks together. This practice not only allowed the construction to continue but also cemented the chapel's place in the region's history as a symbol of resilience and the deep connection between the community and its wine production. It’s a tangible piece of history that tells a story of resourcefulness and tradition.
Exploring the Vale dos Vinhedos
Beyond the chapel, the Vale dos Vinhedos invites exploration. Visitors can tour various wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in wine tastings. Many wineries also boast excellent restaurants serving regional cuisine, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay focused on gastronomy and viticulture. The scenic drives through the rolling hills, lined with vines, are a highlight in themselves.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit