Here stands the Mosteiro de Santo André de Ancede a testament to centuries of faith. Its stones whisper tales from the 12th century to today. Let’s step back in time together.
The Mosteiro de Santo André de Ancede’s origins are shrouded in mystery. Though its exact founding date remains unknown, records show its existence in 1120. Back then, it belonged to the Diocese of Porto. It was linked to the Canons of St. Augustine.
In 1141, a significant event occurred. D. Afonso Henriques granted the Carta de Couto to the monastery’s abbot. This charter came at a price of 150 Morabitinos.
Fast forward to 1560. Pope Pius IV decreed the annexation of the monastery. It then became part of the Convent of São Domingos de Lisboa. This change was at the request of Catherine of Austria. She was then the regent of Portugal.
The 16th century saw some challenges for the Mosteiro de Santo André de Ancede. The number of resident monks declined. A clergyman managed its affairs. Yet, even then, the monastery continued its winemaking tradition. Quality wine was shipped to its parent house in Lisbon. This wine was transported by sea. During this period, the monastery received artistic embellishments. One highlight was the Flemish triptych by Joos van Cleve from 1530.
Major renovations marked the 17th century. The two existing churches were replaced. A new three-nave building emerged. It featured three adorned chapels and a new choir. The work concluded in 1689. This layout corresponds to the current Santo André de Ancede church. The convent’s enclosure likely dates from this time as well.
The 18th century brought economic expansion to the Convent of Santo André de Ancede. Significant remodeling projects took place. The granaries and cellar were built in 1722. The Chapel Senhor do Bom Despacho was constructed in 1731. Finally, the North Gate was erected in 1735. This gate completed the architectural ensemble.
Around 1745, however, records indicated a problem. The tower was in danger of collapsing. It was partially demolished. The monastery’s west wing is considered very old. It predates the Order Cónegos de Santo Agostinho. A library and six cells were once located there.
The south wing was deemed newer. The profundiz hall, refectory, and storage occupied its lower floor. The upper floor housed a barber room and three cells. One cell lodged the prosecuting priests. The east wing contained the chapter house. It also held the cell of the attorneys general and two other cells. The enclosed cloister was surrounded by a shed. This shed was supported by stone columns.
Following the eviction of religious orders in the 19th century, the convent was sold. The First Baron of Ancede acquired it at a public auction. He established a girls-only school there. His family crest remains visible on the North Gate. The Church and Chapel were excluded from the sale. They were returned to the Parish in 1932.
In 1985, the Baião City Council purchased the monastery and its estate. This acquisition cost 30 thousand contos. Beginning in 2001, five intervention phases aimed to conserve and restore the site. The architects Álvaro Siza Vieira and Daniel Vale oversaw the project. The Mosteiro de Ancede Cultural Center of Baião opened on April 21, 2023. It features an 80-seat auditorium and exhibition spaces.
Today, the Mosteiro de Santo André de Ancede stands as a public monument of interest since 2013. Its blend of Romanesque origins and later additions creates a unique architectural complex.