As I’ve said before, churches in Portugal are like Starbucks in America; there seems to be one on every corner and, in some cases, more than one on the corner. These two beautiful little churches, across from the Viana do Castelo railway station, share the same parking area.
The church on the left is the Convent and Church of the 3rd Order of Saint Francis and was built in the 18th century. The church on the right is the Convent and Church of Saint Anthony, also built during the 18th century. Both are built in the Manueline style unique to Portugal. I love the similarities in the two churches, even as both strive to be unique.
I love the facade of the Church of Saint Anthony because of the figures in the niches and the offset bell tower. I also like the slightly rougher stonework. It shows that the church is a few decades older than its neighbor. The Church of Saint Francis is slightly younger, with a cleaner facade. Both churches, though, are really beautiful.
Viana do Castelo is a beautiful little city.
Mostly True 