Church of Saint Anthony of Arcos

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Évora > Estremoz > Arcos > Bairro dos Abibes

Location:

The Church of Santo António dos Arcos is located in the village of Arcos, which is part of the municipality of Estremoz. It is specifically situated in the area known as Bairro dos Abibes. It is a landmark in the life of the local community.

A History of Centuries:

Although the exact date of its foundation is unknown, it is known that the Church of Santo António dos Arcos already existed in the year 1534. Some elements in its structure, such as an exterior buttress in the chancel in Manueline style and a Renaissance marble portal, suggest that its origins may date back to the late 15th century. However, the building seen today is the result of a major renovation carried out in the 17th century. Over time, other elements were added, such as the bell tower, which dates from the 18th century, and the bells, installed in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Architectural Details:

The church's exterior features elements from different eras. Notable is the cylindrical buttress at the rear (chancel), which suggests an older construction with Manueline characteristics. The main portal, made of marble, displays Renaissance characteristics. The tower where the bells are located was added in the 18th century.

Inside, most of the elements date from the 17th-century renovation. A wainscoting of polychrome tiles can be observed along the nave. The side chapels feature stucco altarpieces. The pulpit, also made of marble, is a remarkable piece for its craftsmanship. The chancel underwent significant alterations in the 19th century, with the introduction of polychrome stuccoes related to the Holy Sacrament and a stucco altarpiece on a masonry base.

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