Chapel of Saint John

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Coimbra > Cantanhede > Portunhos > Portunhos e Outil

Location

The Chapel of Saint John is located in Portunhos, a village within the union of parishes of Portunhos and Outil, integrated into the municipality of Cantanhede. It is situated in a predominantly rural and tranquil area, where the chapel harmoniously blends into the local landscape, offering a serene environment conducive to observing its details.

This location offers an experience of quietude, away from the hustle and bustle of large cities, inviting a pause and the discovery of the religious and cultural heritage of the Cantanhede region.

Historical Origin

The history of the Chapel of Saint John likely dates back to the 16th century. Its foundation is associated with the initiative of a nobleman connected to the Meneses family, a lineage with a strong presence in the Portuguese nobility of the time. This foundational legacy grants the chapel significant historical value, connecting it to centuries of life and devotion in the region.

Architecture and Interior

Externally, the Chapel of Saint John presents a modest facade, which contrasts with the richness of details revealed by its interior. The space consists of a single nave, providing an intimate atmosphere. The nave and the chancel are separated by a chancel arch, where the coat of arms of the Counts of Cantanhede is visible, an element that highlights the historical and noble connections of the temple.

The chancel is notable for its vaulted dome, characterized by eight ribs that confer a distinct visual effect and a sense of elevation to the space. This architectural detail contributes to the uniqueness of the interior ambiance.

Artistic Heritage

One of the most prominent features in the Chapel of Saint John is its main altarpiece, a Mannerist piece dated 1648. This altarpiece was carved from Ançã stone, a noble material characteristic of the region, and is composed of three vaulted shell-shaped niches, with the central one being the tallest. Above these niches, a pediment rises, which includes the representation of God the Father, with open arms, an image of strong symbolism.

At the base of the altarpiece rests the altar, also made of stone, set upon a plain column. The chapel also houses various stone sculptures, representing different eras and styles. Among them are the images of Saint James (15th century), Saint John the Baptist (16th-17th centuries), Saint Thomas (17th century), and Saint Euphemia, attesting to the artistic evolution and the richness of the collection over time.

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