Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Santarém > Constância > Constância > Centro Histórico
The Chapel of Saint Anthony is situated in the heart of Constância's Historic Centre, seamlessly integrated into the traditional urban fabric of this Ribatejo village. Its presence serves as a discreet, yet significant, landmark in the cultural landscape of the locality. Outside, a stone cross can be observed, marking the devotional space and inviting approach.
Constructed in the early 18th century, in Baroque style, this chapel is one of the few surviving testimonies of a group of five hermitages that existed in the village throughout the centuries. An ancient legend attributes its foundation to the year 1232, just one year after the canonization of Saint Anthony, making it one of the first dedicated to the saint in Portugal. The visible wear on the access steps is a silent testament to its past as a highly sought-after pilgrimage site for the faithful.
The chapel, though small, captivates with its simplicity and beauty. It features a graceful bell tower and a typical Portuguese porch, which welcomes visitors. Inside, the walls are adorned with a remarkable set of 17th-century azulejos (tiles), among which three panels stand out, narrating episodes from the life of Saint Anthony, with particular emphasis on the one illustrating the celebrated Miracle of the Mule.
Also noteworthy are the holy water font, which may date from the 16th century, and an expressive stone image of the saint, attributed to the 15th century, for its touching serenity. Throughout its history, the chapel has undergone various interventions, including a reconstruction and embellishment in the mid-19th century, which contributed to its preservation to this day.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.4673019,-8.3318253
Coordinates DMS: 39°28'2.3"N 08°19'54.6"W
Weather Constância
On-duty Pharmacy Constância
