Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Faro > Tavira > Tavira > Santa Maria e Santiago
The Hermitage of Santa Ana is located in the eastern part of the city of Tavira, in an area known as Alto de Santana. It is situated in a small square, Largo de Santa Ana, offering a tranquil urban setting. Its elevated position provides a perspective of the surroundings.
This religious building is one of the oldest in Tavira, with its origins possibly dating back to the Middle Ages, with records indicating its existence already in the 16th century. The hermitage was under the patronage of the Order of Santiago, an important military and religious order.
Over the centuries, the temple underwent remodelling, particularly in the first half of the 18th century. During that period, the hermitage was adapted to function as a private chapel integrated into the palace of the Governor and Captain-General of the Algarve.
After a period of abandonment, the hermitage underwent rehabilitation works in 2006, allowing for the preservation of its structure and collection, and the understanding of the memory associated with this ancient place of worship.
The hermitage features a longitudinal plan structure, with a single nave. The interior stands out for its barrel vault ceiling. Above the main portal, there is a choir with a wooden balustrade.
Inside, there are three altarpieces. The main altarpiece, located in the chancel, is a remarkable piece of gilded carved wood, executed in the national style. This central altarpiece includes five painted panels: at the centre, one can observe the image of Our Lady of Piety, while the remaining panels depict scenes from the Steps of Christ's Passion. There is also a painting representing the Immaculate Conception and a panel depicting Christ on the Cross.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.1286784,-7.6514764
Coordinates DMS: 37°07'43.2"N 07°39'5.3"W