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The Capela das Almas (Chapel of the Souls, literally) needs no introduction. After all, it’s one of the biggest tourist attractions and, at the same time, one of the most beautiful religious temples of the city. With an exterior façade covered in thousands of tiles is a must for any tourist.
It is located on the corner of Rua de Santa Catarina with Fernandes Tomás, in the parish of Santo Ildefonso, on one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares. Dating from the first half of the century. XVIII, the chapel is currently one of the most instagrammable places in the city. However, now let’s find out more about its history.
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A brief history of the Chapel
Among Porto’s churches, the Capela de Santa Catarina undoubtedly deserves a special mention. So now let’s learn a little more about this building.
The origin of the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls) dates back to an old wooden temple built in honor of Santa Catarina. The building underwent extension and restoration work at the beginning of the century. XVIII, scenery that altered its original style.
The tiles were added later, but we’ll get to that. Now it’s time to take a closer look inside the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls).
A look inside
The interior of what is one of Porto’s most beautiful churches has a neoclassical style. There are also altars dedicated to various saints. The main altar features a panel depicting the Ascension of the Lord.
However, these are not the only reasons to mention it. Also noteworthy is a stained glass window on the main façade, dating from the second half of the 19th century. XX, by the painter Amândio Silva.
Thousands of tiles
If you like tiles so there are plenty of s ights to see in Porto… And, without a doubt, the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls) is one of them. With more than 15,000 tiles covering around 360 square meters, this church impresses with the beauty of its exterior.
This spectacular backdrop painted in blue and white was added in 1929. The ceramist Eduardo Leite is the author of this masterpiece, which was made by the Viúva Lamego Ceramics Factory in Lisbon. The impressive tiles tell the life story of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Catherine.
Right from the start, azulejos won the hearts of the people of Porto. More recently, the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls) has also become an Instagram star. It’s safe to say that no one is indifferent to this symbol of Porto!