Chapel of Saint Anthony

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Castelo Branco > Belmonte > Belmonte > Zona do Castelo

Location

Saint Anthony's Chapel is located in the area surrounding Belmonte Castle, in an elevated part of the village. Its position provides it with a setting within the historical center, close to other important local buildings. Access is via a few steps, leading up to the main entrance.

Historical Roots

This small temple has ancient origins, with its establishment dating back to the 15th century, by initiative of D. Isabel Gouveia. The construction seen today appears to date from the 16th or 17th centuries, bearing witness to different moments in Belmonte's history and its connection to prominent families.

Exterior Aspect and Symbolism

The chapel features simple and vernacular religious architecture, built of granite masonry. The main facade stands out for its finishes and its framed portal. Laterally to the portal, there are two coats of arms stones displaying the blazons of the Cabral family (on the left side) and the Queirós and Gouveia families (on the right side), elements that underscore the historical importance and noble connections associated with the chapel.

Interior Details and Collection

Inside, the chapel reveals a single-space structure with a wooden ceiling. On the back wall, there is a gilded carved altarpiece, dating from the 18th century and of national style. This altarpiece, which was transferred to the chapel in the mid-20th century, houses the image of the patron saint. The collection also includes images that were, at one time, part of the collection of other religious buildings in the village.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt