Emerging from the bustling Rua de Santa Catarina, the Capela das Almas beckons. It’s not just a chapel. It’s a canvas of stories, painted in vibrant blue and white azulejos. The Capela das Almas, also known as the Chapel of Santa Catarina, stands as a testament to the rich history and artistic heritage of Porto. Originally a humble wooden structure dedicated to Saint Catherine, the chapel underwent a transformation in the late 18th century. The Brotherhood of Souls and Wounds of Saint Francis relocated from the Monastery of Santa Clara, bringing with them a renewed devotion to Saint Catherine and the impetus for a grander chapel. The present Capela das Almas comprises two sections, one slightly lower than the other, a result of expansions and renovations in 1801. What truly captivates the eye are the 15,947 azulejo tiles. These stunning tiles, crafted by Eduardo Leite and produced by the Fábrica de Cerâmica Viúva Lamego in Lisbon, weren’t added until 1929. Before then, the chapel’s exterior was simply plastered and painted white. Imagine the transformation! These intricate blue and white designs depict scenes from the lives of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Catherine, their martyrdom and death immortalized in ceramic art. Inside the Capela das Almas, the neoclassical style continues, a serene contrast to the vibrant exterior. A masterpiece by Joaquim Rafael, “The Ascension of the Lord,” graces the main altar. A stained-glass window, crafted by Amândio Silva in the 19th century, depicts souls ascending, adding another layer of spiritual significance to this remarkable chapel. The Capela das Almas is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to the enduring power of faith, art, and history, a must-see for any visitor to Porto.
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