Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage
District: Beja > Beja > Beja > Santiago Maior e São João Baptista
The Hermitage of Santo André is a notable example of medieval architecture in the Iberian Peninsula, representing the architectural style of the late Middle Ages in Portugal.
Although there is little precise information about the history of the building, it is believed that the current construction dates back to the early 16th century, during the reign of Manuel I. There are indications that the original hermitage was founded by King Sancho I.
The Hermitage of Santo André underwent extensive restoration work in the 1990s, ensuring its preservation and allowing visitors to appreciate its historical beauty.
The chapel presents a coherent structure, composed of three distinct parts: a portico with a sloping roof, a nave with a gable roof and a simple bell tower, and an almost square apse.
The 12 small towers along the portico and nave can be interpreted both as structural buttresses and as defensive towers, as they have merlons on the roof ridges.
The interior of the church has a pointed barrel vault with transverse arches. In the apse, it is possible to find some vestiges of frescoes and tiles dating from the late 16th or early 17th century.
The Hermitage of Santo André is considered part of the architectural heritage of Portugal, being recognized as Cultural Heritage, and represents an unmissable visit for lovers of history and architecture.
Sources: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ermida_de_Santo_André_(Beja)
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.019987,-7.870233
Coordinates DMS: 38°01'12.0"N 07°52'12.8"W
