Chapel of Saint Anthony

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Castelo Branco > Idanha-a-Nova > Monsanto > Monsanto e Idanha-a-Velha

Location:

The Chapel of Saint Anthony is located in the southwestern part of Monsanto village, built on a hillside. Its main access is from a small square, near the Gates of Saint Anthony, one of the village's entrances. The site adapts to the characteristic sloping terrain of the area.

In the immediate vicinity of the chapel, there is a public road and, on the opposite side, the local cemetery. Its somewhat secluded position from the village's bustling center lends it a unique atmosphere.

Origins and Architecture:

This chapel was built between the 16th and 17th centuries. It retains elements of its initial construction, visible in details such as the main portal's frame and the ceiling structure in the altar area.

The chapel has a rectangular plan, comprising a nave and a chancel, which is slightly narrower. The interior ceilings show notable differences: the nave is covered by a simple wooden ceiling, while the chancel features an interesting granite ashlar ribbed vault, an architectural solution that required the construction of buttresses on the exterior corners to support the weight.

Facade Details:

The main facade, facing west, culminates in a triangular gable (pediment) topped by a Latin cross. Prominently featured is the main portal, in Manueline style, with a perfect round arch. This portal is decorated with several moldings resting on slender colonettes, whose capitals feature decorations inspired by vegetal forms.

Framing the portal, two elements resembling staffs decorated with a fleur-de-lis are noticeable. Above the door arch, there is a circular pierced oculus in the shape of the cross of Christ. The rectangular windows flanking the portal were added later, in the 17th century. On the left side of the gable, there is a small bell-gable.

Historical Context:

Built in the 16th and 17th centuries, the Chapel of Saint Anthony is part of Monsanto's historical heritage. Its existence is referenced in old documents, such as the Parochial Memoirs of 1758, which attests to its antiquity and relevance to the local community over time.

The chapel has maintained its religious function since its construction. It is integrated into the Special Protection Zone of Monsanto Castle and Walls, thus benefiting from measures aimed at safeguarding this important historical complex.

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