Chapel of Saint Anthony

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Castelo Branco > Belmonte > Caria > Santo Antão

Location

The Chapel of Saint Anthony (Santo Antão) is located in the village of Caria, in the municipality of Belmonte, more specifically in the area designated as Santo Antão. Situated on the Monte da Serra da Esperança, the chapel is set in an open space that offers views of the surrounding landscape, including the Serra da Estrela mountain range and the Cova da Beira valley.

Its somewhat isolated position lends a tranquil atmosphere to the site, which was once connected to a Roman road context and is near an old 16th or 17th-century fountain.

Architecture and Visible Details

This chapel features a simple religious architectural design, with a longitudinal plan. It is composed of the main nave and the chancel, with a front porch.

The main facade is in exposed stonework, contrasting with the side facades which are plastered and painted white, with granite quoins. The porch, with a square plan, is defined by stonework railings and supported by pillars and columns.

Interior and Decorative Elements

Upon entering the chapel, the simplicity of the space is noticeable. The nave has a ceramic floor and a wooden ceiling. A distinctive element inside is the patterned tile wainscoting that covers the walls, adding color to the space.

The nave connects to the chancel through an arch. On the back wall, the main altarpiece is located, which imitates marble and displays green and gold ornaments.

In this altarpiece, the central niche with the image of Saint Anthony stands out, flanked by panels representing Saint Agatha and Saint Lucy.

Historical Notes

The history of the Chapel of Saint Anthony spans several centuries, with references to its existence since the 16th century, although it has undergone various improvements and remodels over time, extending into the 20th century. Devotion to Saint Anthony in this area may be associated with the influence of the cult of this saint in Belmonte, promoted by the convent of the Canons Regular of Saint Anthony.

Among the elements that tell part of its history is an exterior pulpit with an inscription dating from 1674, and a plaque on the main facade placed in 1958, honoring the children of Valhelhas (a neighboring locality) residing in Lisbon.

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