Percurso Museológico no Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos / Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Guimarães
The Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos in Guimarães is close to both Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza in the UNESCO World Heritage old city.
However, it is not much visited, but if you are interested in Portuguese religious art and architecture, it is a must.
History
The Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos is a 17th century convent that was purchased in 1842 by the Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Porto. This was founded in 1498 by D. Manuel I and Queen Leonor and continues to provide public charity and social assistance to the people of Portugal into the modern era. The larger parts of the original building still function as a hospital.
The part of the Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos open to visitors includes the beautiful 17th century sacristy, as well as several cloisters and courtyards.
Also on display are religious paintings as well as frequent temporary collections of more contemporary art.
Architecture
The sacristy contains stunning wall paintings and a decorated ceiling along with statues of the crucified Christ.
The chapel has an Iberian pipe organ, a high choir and exquisite, decorative, gilded, wood carving.
The interior was extensively and painstakingly restored before being opened to the public.
The restorations closely followed the original design by the architect José Luís Nogueira in the second half of the 19th century.
Wall panels explain how the restoration was carried out and can be seen here and there in the building.
Access
Rua Dr. Joaquim de Meira
4810 Guimarães
Tel: 253 253 541 244
Admission: 2 Euros with concessions for students and people over 65 years of age; the Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos can also be entered using the Guimarães Pass (15 Euros or 18 Euros with the Teleférico).
Hours: 10 am - 1 pm; 2 pm - 5 pm; Tuesday - Saturday.
Nearby
Close to the Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos are the Church of São Miguel do Castelo and Guimarães Castle. Also within a short walk is the Convento do Carmo.
A recommended eatery close by is Cor de Tangerina (Tel: 253 542 009) which has excellent vegetarian food that can be served al fresco on a terrace with views up to the castle. There is also a large restaurant/cafe Cafetaria Conquistador on Rua Conde Dom Henrique open during the day.
Hotels close to the Convento de Santo António dos Capuchos and Guimarães Castle include the four star Santa Luzia ArtHotel and the Hotel da Oliveira, also four star. The Four - As apartment is a minute or two away.
