Chapel of the Lord of the Fountain

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Cantanhede > Ançã > Senhor da Fonte

Location

The Chapel of Senhor da Fonte is located in the area of Senhor da Fonte, in the locality of Ançã, which belongs to the municipality of Cantanhede. Integrated into an urban context, its position is marked by its proximity to a water spring that gives it part of its name and symbolism, as well as to an old bridge. Access is via Rua Jaime Cortesão, in an area that reflects the calm atmosphere and daily life of the local community.

A Centenary History

The Chapel of Senhor da Fonte has historical roots extending back to the 17th century, a period when a niche of popular devotion already marked this spot. It was in the 18th century that the chapel known today was built, erected precisely on the site where that ancient manifestation of faith existed. Since its construction, and to this day, it maintains its religious function, serving as a landmark for the community and a testament to the 18th-century architecture of the region.

Architecture and Details

Built between the 17th and 18th centuries, the Chapel of Senhor da Fonte is an example of the religious architecture of the period. It features a rectangular plan, with a design that harmonizes its interior and exterior volumes. Its main façade, oriented south, stands out with three distinct sections, featuring a central straight-lintel portal and a projecting frieze. Above, a robust cornice supports an elevated pediment, adorned with volutes and pyramidal pinnacles culminating in spheres, marking each angle of the structure. Inside, the single space is lit subtly. Of note is a 17th-century stone altarpiece depicting a Crucifixion, and it is also possible to observe traces of polychromy on the walls, revealing its original artistic richness.

Tradition and Devotion

The name of the Chapel of Senhor da Fonte is not accidental, being intrinsically linked to the presence of a water spring in its vicinity. This connection resulted in a profound cultural association, notably manifested in the Feast of Senhor da Fonte. This festivity, of great antiquity and local relevance, has a strong religious character, but also celebrates the cult of water and is historically associated with the end of harvests, particularly grape harvests. The chapel is, therefore, a symbol of devotion and the agrarian traditions of the region, perpetuating memories and practices over time.

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