Chapel of Our Lady of the Conception of the Vineyards, on the Ribeira Grande Road

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Ribeira Grande > Boavista > Conceição das Vinhas

Location

- The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is located in the parish of Rabo de Peixe, in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, on the Island of São Miguel, in the Azores.

Azorean Religious Architecture

- This charming chapel is an excellent example of the religious architecture of the island of São Miguel.

- Its location on the edge of the national road that connects Ponta Delgada to Ribeira Grande makes it easily accessible.

History and Age

- The exact date of construction of the chapel is unknown, as there are no records or inscriptions with the date.

- Based on its architectural features, it is believed to have been built during the 17th century.

Curious Name

- The chapel was known as "Nossa Senhora da Conceição das Vinhas" (Our Lady of the Conception of the Vineyards), probably due to the presence of vineyards in its surroundings.

Owners and Conservation

- At the beginning of the last century, the chapel belonged to Francisco Alberto do Rego and, later, to Mr. Alfredo Gamboa, from Ribeira Grande.

- Alfredo Gamboa took good care of the chapel's conservation during his possession.

Tiles and Altar

- Inside the chapel, you will find a simple altar, whose front features 17th-century tiles, which, despite being worn by time, still display their beauty.

- The small image of the Virgin of the Conception is an ancient relic, presumably dating from the 17th century, the same era as the construction of the chapel.

Pilgrimages and Activities

- In the past, the chapel was a place of lively pilgrimages, but over time, these celebrations have become less frequent.

Visiting

- The Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is a place of historical and religious interest that tourists can visit during their stay in São Miguel.

- Despite its simplicity, its history and architecture make it an interesting stop along the road that connects the two main cities of the island.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ermida_de_Nossa_Senhora_da_Conceição_(Rabo_de_Peixe)