Chapel of Saint Anthony

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Évora > Portel > Portel > Bairro Dias de Carvalho

Location

The Chapel of Saint Anthony is located in the town of Portel, integrated into the urban environment of Bairro Dias de Carvalho. It is situated in Praça Dom Nuno Álvares Pereira, a spacious square that invites a moment of pause. Its corner position contributes to its visibility and integration into the local urban fabric, inviting passers-by to discover its details.

A Glimpse into History

Built between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the Chapel of Saint Anthony originated as a private oratory for the Brotherhood of the Third Order. Its original function was as a place of worship, where masses were celebrated for the prisoners of the old county jail, which was located nearby. Over the centuries, the building underwent significant transformations; in the 19th century, it was adapted to house public offices. More recently, it was revitalized and transformed into a dynamic cultural space, now serving for exhibitions and various cultural events, keeping its connection to the community alive.

Architectural and Artistic Details

The chapel features a centralized, Greek cross plan, with a quadrangular exterior structure crowned by a dome and a small lantern. The east-facing façade stands out for its marble door, adorned with Ionic pilasters and a frieze of classical triglyphs. The interior is a unique space, dominated by a hemispherical dome. The walls and arches are covered with a remarkable collection of polychrome tiles, dating from the first half of the 17th century, arranged in patterns resembling "carpets" and borders. One of the panels is particularly rare, illustrating the "Miracle of the Mule Worshipping the Blessed Sacrament". The pilasters and arches display yellow valances, while the dome's cornice features a sober combination of blue and white, and the dome itself is decorated with delicate intertwined quatrefoils. Outside, to the left of the main portal, one of the old Stations of the Cross can be observed, dating from the 19th century.

Recognition and Heritage Value

Due to its historical, architectural, and artistic importance, the Chapel of Saint Anthony is classified as a Monument of Public Interest, a distinction that underlines its value for national heritage. This classification, awarded in 2012, guarantees its protection and recognition as a singular element of the cultural heritage of Portel and the Alentejo. The chapel represents a point of interest that combines its religious and architectural past with a contemporary and cultural use.

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