Saint Barbara Church

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Praia da Vitória > Fonte do Bastardo

Location

The Church of Santa Bárbara is located in the parish of Fonte do Bastardo, part of the municipality of Praia da Vitória, on Terceira Island, Azores. It is situated in the heart of the locality, in the main square, a meeting point and reference for the local community.

This central position allows the building to stand out in the urban landscape, offering a glimpse into the life and history of this peaceful Azorean parish.

History and Resilience

Dating from the 20th century, as can be seen from the inscription "F. B. 1904" on its main façade, the Church of Santa Bárbara is a relatively recent landmark in the island's history, yet holds deep significance for its inhabitants. The temple is included in the Inventory of Historical and Religious Heritage of Praia da Vitória, a recognition of its cultural importance.

A notable episode in its history occurred on January 1, 1980, when an earthquake struck the island. Despite the damage suffered, the church demonstrated its resilience, allowing religious celebrations to continue, a testament to the community's faith and determination to preserve its place of worship.

Architecture and Details

The architecture of the Church of Santa Bárbara presents a harmonious composition, with a rectangular main body and a chancel, also rectangular but of more modest dimensions. The ensemble is enriched by annexed bodies that adjoin the side façades and the rear part.

Its façades, mostly plastered and whitewashed, are highlighted by structural and decorative elements in exposed stonework. Prominently featured are the plinth, quoins, pilasters, cornices, and window frames, which create an elegant contrast. The main façade, for instance, is topped by a pediment with volutes and culminates in a bell tower, giving it an imposing presence. Inside, the space reveals a single nave, with a flat ceiling and a high choir located above the entrance, complemented by two side chapels near the chancel.

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