Capela de Santa Cristina

Have you ever walked down a bustling shopping street and stumbled upon a hidden gem? Right here on Rua de Santa Catarina, amidst the shops and crowds, stands the Capela de Santa Cristina. The Capela de Santa Cristina is also known as the Capela das Almas, or Chapel of Souls. The striking blue and white azulejo tiles that adorn its exterior immediately draw the eye. They tell the stories of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Catherine. Depicted in vivid detail are scenes from their lives, including St. Francis’s death and St. Catherine’s martyrdom. These 15,947 tiles, crafted by the Fábrica de Cerâmica Viúva Lamego in Lisbon and designed by Eduardo Leite, weren’t added until 1929, transforming the previously plain, white-plastered chapel into the vibrant masterpiece we see today. The origins of the Capela de Santa Cristina go back to a humble wooden chapel dedicated to St. Catherine. The current structure began construction in the late 18th century. The Brotherhood of Souls and Wounds of Saint Francis relocated from the Monastery of Santa Clara to this chapel, boosting St. Catherine’s popularity and prompting the construction of the new chapel. Inside the Capela de Santa Cristina, the neoclassical style continues. A large painting titled “The Ascension of the Lord” by Joaquim Rafael dominates the main altar. Another noteworthy feature is the stained-glass window depicting souls. This window was created by the painter Amândio Silva in the 19th century. The Capela de Santa Cristina’s current two-level structure underwent expansions and restorations in 1801. This chapel offers a serene escape from the bustling street outside, a place to reflect on history and art within its azulejo-clad walls. So, next time you’re shopping on Rua de Santa Catarina, take a moment to appreciate this hidden treasure, a testament to faith, history, and the beauty of azulejo art.