Hermitage of Our Lady of Piety

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Vila do Porto > Santo Espírito > Malbusca

Location

The Hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Piedade is located in Malbusca, an area belonging to the locality of Santo Espírito, in the municipality of Vila do Porto, on the island of Santa Maria, in the Azores.

Its isolated implantation, in the center of a walled churchyard, gives it a unique atmosphere and a singular presence in the surrounding landscape.

Historical Background

The hermitage's history dates back to an older construction, which the local community had initially erected in a place known as Piedade. By the end of the 17th century, this primitive hermitage was already referenced in documents.

Later, the parish priest, João Pimentel, decided to demolish the original temple and rebuild it in its current location in Malbusca. This new construction was made possible by the donation of land by Bernardino Pacheco, thus establishing the hermitage in its present location.

Architectural Features

The Hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Piedade has a rectangular plan and stands out for its compact and traditional structure. On its left side, a small attached volume, corresponding to the sacristy, can be observed.

The main facade has an entrance door surmounted by an oculus, and at the top of the ridge, a stone cross stands out. On the right side of the hermitage, a door and a window open, allowing light and air to enter.

The roof is gabled, with traditional half-round tiles, and is finished with a double eaves. A notable detail inside is its azulejos, which date from the 17th century, adding historical and artistic value to the hermitage.

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