Chapel of the Fort of St. Philip

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Setúbal > Setúbal > Setúbal > Viso

Location:

The Chapel of S. Filipe Fort is located in Setúbal, in the Viso area, integrated into the structure of the historic S. Filipe Fort. From its elevated position, it is possible to contemplate a panoramic view over the city of Setúbal and the Sado River estuary, creating a broad and striking visual setting.

Historical Context:

Situated within S. Filipe Fort, whose construction dates back to 1582 during the Spanish occupation period, this chapel reflects a legacy of religious art within a fortification. Although the fort was built for defensive purposes, the chapel it houses constitutes a distinct space, marked by a later artistic period.

Architectural and Artistic Details:

The chapel stands out for its Baroque style and the richness of its decorative elements. The interior is uniquely adorned with panels of blue and white tiles, which completely cover the walls. These tiles, attributed to Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes, illustrate scenes from the life of Saint Philip.

The barrel vault and the altar in gilded woodcarving complement the aesthetics of the space, lending it an atmosphere of particular beauty and spiritual inclination. Despite its compact dimensions, the chapel reveals remarkable visual expressiveness.

A Space for Reflection:

This place offers an experience of tranquility and reflection. It is an environment that invites silence and contemplation, where the weight of history and the beauty of art combine to create a unique space for reflection. The collection of sacred art present within reinforces the mystical character and cultural value of this small treasure.

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