Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Viseu > Tondela > Arnosa > Rua da Capela
The Chapel of São Tiago is located in the village of Arnosa, in the municipality of Tondela, on Rua da Capela. The building is set in a calm, urban environment, surrounded by a small walled churchyard. In front, a circular fountain, crowned by the image of Saint Anthony, complements the surrounding landscape, creating a visual landmark for visitors.
The Chapel of São Tiago, as we know it today, is the result of a construction from the 18th and 19th centuries. The current temple stands on the site of an older church, which was demolished in 1760 due to its advanced state of ruin. The works on the new church were blessed in 1767, although at that time only the walls and roof were completed, with its finalization occurring in 1781. This chronology reflects a period of architectural renovation in the region.
The interior of the Chapel of São Tiago conveys a sense of harmony and nobility. Its main altarpiece, executed in 1806 by the sculptor Narciso de Sousa Melo, is a notable work of neoclassical style, elegantly fitting into the back wall of the chancel. This altarpiece incorporates a tribune, throne, bench, and candlesticks, standing out for its balanced composition.
On the façade, a stone representation of the chapel's patron saint, Saint James, welcomes arrivals. Inside, one can observe a baptismal font with a twisted support, a unique piece notable for its design, as well as an image of the Virgin, both attributed to the sculptor João de Ruão, dated from the 16th century. The collateral altarpieces and the chancel arch contribute to the scenic richness of the chancel's entrance, enriching the visual journey of visitors.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.4973812,-8.1682498
Coordinates DMS: 40°29'50.6"N 08°10'5.7"W
Weather Arnosa
On-duty Pharmacy Arnosa
