Chapel of Saint Thomas Aquinas

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Setúbal > Almada > Caparica e Trafaria > Fonte Santa

Location

The Chapel of São Tomás de Aquino is located in the Fonte Santa area, within the parishes of Caparica and Trafaria, in the municipality of Almada. Although isolated, it is situated in a peri-urban setting, part of an old estate, now reduced in size. The chapel stands on ground slightly lower than the adjacent road, separated by a wall, and its surroundings are characterized by vegetation that contributes to the tranquility of the place.

Historical Legacy

Dating from the 16th century, the Chapel of São Tomás de Aquino was built in the heart of what was then Quinta da Torre, a property of great importance in the Reguengo da Caparica. Its construction, initiated by D. Tomás de Noronha, a prominent figure in the Council of State of D. Sebastião, and his wife D. Helena da Silva, was part of the establishment of a family entailment. Over the centuries, the chapel witnessed important moments, such as the celebration of a notable wedding in 1731, which linked families of high nobility. However, the great earthquake of 1755 caused severe damage. After a period of abandonment, the chapel underwent interventions at the end of the 20th century to preserve its historical structure, allowing it to remain as a testament to the past.

Manueline Architectural Details

The Chapel of São Tomás de Aquino is a remarkable example of Manueline religious architecture, distinguishing itself in the panorama of the municipality of Almada. Its rectangular structure, which integrates the nave and chancel, reveals the simplicity and robustness of the constructions of the time. The interior is notable for its coffered ceilings, which once completely covered its spaces. On the main façade, facing south, the keel arch portal stands out, supported by small columns with capitals decorated with plant motifs, and a circular oculum that crowns the gable. Complementarily, in the vicinity of the chapel, there is a rectangular well with two stone columns, an element that, together with the chapel itself, reinforces the uniqueness of the Manueline ensemble in this territory.

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