Chapel of Saint Catherine

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Santarém > Sardoal > Sardoal

Location

The Chapel of Saint Catherine is located on Rua 5 de Outubro, well integrated into the urban fabric of the village of Sardoal. Its central position makes it an accessible point for those strolling through the village streets, allowing for a peaceful observation of its facade and the surrounding environment in the heart of the village.

Origin and Historical Legacy

This small chapel has its roots in the 18th century. Its particularity lies in the fact that it was, at one time, a private chapel, belonging to the manor house of a prominent family in the region, the Serrão da Motta. This past gives it a distinct character, bearing witness to the devotion and social life of the era in Sardoal and offering a glimpse into local history.

Architectural and Artistic Details

The construction of the Chapel of Saint Catherine stands out for its simplicity, yet it features interesting elements that make it unique. The facade is distinguished by a graceful and harmonious semicircular arch, topped with decorative volutes. Above the arch, a cross flanked by two arrows can be seen, a detail that adds symbolism to the building's exterior structure.

Inside, the chapel features a single nave leading to the chancel, where a carefully crafted stucco altarpiece is found, adorned with niches for the display of sacred images. The central point of the altarpiece is occupied by the image of Saint Catherine, flanked on the left by the figure of the Guardian Angel and on the right by another saint, creating a composition that invites contemplation.

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