Hermitage of Our Lady of Pleasures in Maia

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Vila do Porto > Maia

Location

The Hermitage of Our Lady of Pleasures is located in the locality of Maia, in the parish of Santo Espírito, belonging to the municipality of Vila do Porto, on the island of Santa Maria, Azores. Its position, facing the sea, offers a unique perspective on the natural surroundings, historically marked by the presence of vineyards that once encircled it, lending it an atmosphere of tranquility and connection to the Azorean coastal landscape.

A Brief History

This small temple was erected in 1685, on the initiative of Manuel de Sousa Falcão and his wife, Cristina. Since its foundation, the hermitage has been a point of reference and devotion in the locality of Maia. Over the centuries, it has maintained its importance for the community. In 1997, the structure benefited from restoration work, which allowed its characteristics to be preserved and ensured its continuity as a place of visit and contemplation.

Architectural and Artistic Details

The hermitage features a simple rectangular plan, with a small addition on the left side, covered by an extension of the roof. The main façade is marked by a door topped by a window and, at the top of the ridge, a stone cross stands out. The roof is traditional, with a gabled design and barrel tiles. Inside, the altar stands out with a frontal covered in tiles. These panels, predominantly in blue and white with some yellow accents, are notable for the scalloped cartouche depicting the crowned Virgin with the Child, elements estimated to be from the 18th century.

The Legend of Captivity

The history of the Hermitage of Our Lady of Pleasures is enveloped in an interesting popular legend, which adds a layer of mysticism to the site. It is said that Domingos Corvêlo, a winemaker from the region, was captured by Barbary pirates who, after plundering the hermitage and stealing the image of the patron saint, took him captive. In despair and illness, Corvêlo promised Our Lady of Pleasures that, should he manage to return to Santa Maria, he would provide a new image. Miraculously, he was returned to the locality of Aveiro, later fulfilling his promise. This narrative underscores the faith and resilience associated with the site and its patron saint.

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