Chapel of Saint Sebastian

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Faro > Silves > Alcantarilha > Quinta dos Reis

Location

The Hermitage of São Sebastião is located in the Quinta dos Reis area, in Alcantarilha, a peaceful corner of the municipality of Silves. This location offers a tranquil environment, characteristic of residential and rural areas of the Algarve, inviting a moment of serenity. The hermitage is set in an urban context, flanked by a small churchyard that invites a pause, reflecting its integration into the local fabric.

History and Origins

Dedicated to Saint Sebastian, a patron saint invoked against plagues, this hermitage, like many other religious structures in Portugal, was likely erected in times of greater vulnerability for the population, probably from the 16th century onwards. Its construction represented an act of faith and hope, aiming for the community's protection. Over the centuries, the building underwent various interventions, which contributes to its historical richness and to the fusion of architectural styles observed today.

Architectural Features

The hermitage features a longitudinal plan, with a single nave, characteristic of many popular religious constructions. On its exterior, the building exhibits a certain sobriety, typical of the plain style, which contrasts with the richness sometimes revealed inside. It is possible to find architectural elements dating back to different periods, from the Manueline style, visible in some arches and moldings that denote a period of artistic flourishing, to Baroque traces, present in portals and decorative elements.

The Interior and its Details

The interior of the Hermitage of São Sebastião may surprise with its ornamentation. The walls, in many cases, are covered with patterned tiles, whose colors and motifs transport observers to the 17th and 18th centuries. The vaults, sometimes with simple ribs, are complemented by capitals decorated with details such as ogees and cordage, evoking the craftsmanship of the era. The altarpieces, frequently in gilded Baroque carving, invite contemplation, revealing the devotion and appreciation for sacred art throughout time.

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