Hermitage of Santo António do Alto

Category: Religious Architecture > Hermitage

District: Faro > Faro > Faro > Horta da Areia

Location

The Hermitage of Santo António do Alto is situated at the highest point of the city of Faro, in the area known as Horta da Areia. This privileged position grants it a landmark role in the urban landscape and allows visitors to enjoy a wide view over the city and the surrounding natural environment, which extends to the neighboring Olhão. The tower, which stands next to the hermitage, constitutes an excellent viewpoint, offering different perspectives of the region as one ascends.

History and Architecture

The history of the Hermitage of Santo António do Alto is intrinsically linked to that of an ancient medieval watchtower, erected in the mid-14th century, which served to guard the city. The construction of the hermitage, thought to have begun in the 15th century, utilized this defensive structure. Over time, the building underwent several interventions. In the 16th century, the lower part of the tower was incorporated as the chancel, and it is there that one can observe a star-ribbed vault of Manueline style.

In the 18th century, the hermitage was subjected to a profound remodelling, which resulted in the widening of the nave, the construction of a galilee and sacristy, and the design of a new façade. This façade, despite its simplicity, displays distinctive Baroque elements, such as the pediment crowning the main door and the old royal coats of arms. Inside, the altarpiece of the main altar stands out, an 18th-century carving attributed to Manuel Martins, which includes figures of Faith and Charity.

Collections and Tradition

Beyond its architectural importance and the view it offers, the Hermitage of Santo António do Alto is also a place of cultural and religious value. Inside, there is a space dedicated to the figure of the patron saint, known as the Antonino Museum, which gathers a collection of images, paintings, and engravings alluding to Saint Anthony. On the exterior, above one of the museum's windows, a tile panel depicting Saint Anthony preaching to the fish is visible, a detail that adds interest to the visit.

The hermitage keeps alive the devotion to Saint Anthony, annually hosting the celebration of the feast dedicated to the saint, on June 13th. The space also houses images of other saints, such as Saint Mark and Saint Catherine, who in other times were objects of worship by the Chapter of the Cathedral. These elements contribute to the historical and symbolic richness of the place, making it a point of interest that reveals different layers of Faro's memory.

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