Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Lisboa > Torres Vedras > A dos Cunhados e Maceira > Casal das Paradas
The Church of Saint Anthony is integrated into the former Convent of Saint Anthony of Varatojo, a remarkable architectural complex that stands on the outskirts of Torres Vedras. Located in a rural area, the site invites tranquility and offers a serene atmosphere, complemented by a small garden in front of the main building.
The foundation of this religious space dates back to 1470, initiated by King D. Afonso V. Its creation resulted from a promise made to Saint Anthony, seeking aid for military campaigns in North Africa. The official inauguration took place in 1474. In the 16th century, after an earthquake destroyed the original church in 1531, a new structure was erected on the same site. Later, in the 17th century, the convent assumed the role of a college for apostolic missionaries, becoming the Varatojo Seminary. This monument was classified as a national interest site in 1910.
The church, an integral part of the conventual complex, features a longitudinal plan with a single nave, demonstrating a rich superposition of architectural styles throughout the centuries. Elements of the Gothic period are visible in the main portal and the heraldic bas-reliefs flanking it, as well as in the cloister. The Manueline style is present in the Mudéjar ceiling of the gatehouse and in the portals of the cloister and the Chapel of Senhor Jesus. Mannerism can be identified in the pulpit and in some tile patterns. Baroque influence is evident in the tiles, both figurative and patterned, and in the gilded woodcarving of the altarpieces.
Inside the Church of Saint Anthony, the artistic richness captivates the eye. The chancel is adorned with a wainscot of tiles depicting scenes from the life of the patron saint, topped by paintings on wood panels. The main altarpiece displays white and gilded carving in the national style and an imposing canvas by the Italian painter Bacarelli, which portrays "The Presentation of the Child to Saint Anthony". The sacristy stands out for its tiles, attributed to Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes. The two-story cloister has a ceiling painted with the motto of D. Afonso V on the first floor, while the vestibule reveals a simple strapwork ceiling with geometric interlacing, also associated with the reign of this monarch.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.1597927,-9.3308456
Coordinates DMS: 39°09'35.3"N 09°19'51.0"W
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