Hermitage of Holy Christ of the Wayside Cross

Category: Religious Architecture > Chapel

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > Angra > Nossa Senhora da Conceição

Location:

The hermitage stands in a small square where Garoupinha, Cruzeiro, Memória streets and Ladeira de São Francisco converge, in the Nossa Senhora da Conceição area, in Angra do Heroísmo. This traditional cobbled space preserves the old urban layout, reinforcing the temple's historical setting.

Although discreet within the surrounding built environment, the location allows one to observe the intimate relationship between the hermitage and the agricultural lands that once existed nearby, now integrated into the urban fabric but still suggesting the former use of market gardens near the cross that gave it origin.

Origin and History:

Construction dates back to 1739 and replaced a cross that had existed on the site since at least 1556, displaying a carved stone image of Christ. The title 'Senhor Santo Cristo do Cruzeiro' (Lord Holy Christ of the Cross) reflects this continuity, connecting local devotion to the memory of the religious stations that took place there.

Among the main benefactors was Bento Giraldes Soares, canon of the Collegiate Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, and several faithful whose contributions allowed the small chapel to be erected. Historical references point to descriptions made by Father Jerónimo Emiliano de Andrade and, later, by Dr. Alfredo da Silva Sampaio.

Architecture and Ambiance:

Of reduced dimensions, the facade stands out for its simple portal framed by Tuscan pilasters and the hermitage's body painted white, with details highlighted in light blue. A single access door and a side window give it a naturally austere interior with subdued lighting.

Inside, the single chapel houses the original stone cross, flanked by images of Our Lady of Sorrows and Saint Joseph. The austere ambiance favors a moment of contemplation, recalling the space's original use as a place for private prayer.

Heritage and Protection:

The hermitage has been classified as a Property of Municipal Interest since 1977, also forming part of the classified Central Zone of the City of Angra do Heroísmo. This distinction recognizes its historical and urbanistic value in the Azorean context.

The classification ensures the safeguarding of the hermitage and its surroundings, preserving its architectural characteristics and the connection to the old cross that founded the local devotion to the Holy Christ.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt