Capela de Santo Amaro, Renaissance chapel in Alcântara, Portugal.
The Chapel of Santo Amaro is a structure with a circular plan and central dome made of two cylindrical sections stacked together. Its interior walls are covered with painted tiles that decorate the enclosed space.
The chapel was built in 1549 following a design by architect Diogo de Torralva and gained protected status in the early 1900s. This recognition helped preserve it for future generations.
The walls feature glazed tiles showing scenes from the life of Saint Amaro, creating a visual narrative through decorated ceramic surfaces. This tiled language shapes how visitors experience the interior as they move through the space.
The location sits on a hilltop and is accessible by public transportation, offering an unobstructed view from the elevated terrace. Visitors should plan time to explore and linger, as the setting invites quiet observation.
The circular floor plan followed a design principle that departed from the rectangular church architecture typical of that era. This was a bold approach for the 1500s and made the building stand out from others of its time.
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