Church of Saint Lucy

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > São Roque do Pico > Santa Luzia > Outeiro

Location

The Church of Santa Luzia is located in the civil parish of Santa Luzia, within the Outeiro area, in the municipality of São Roque do Pico. Its position, close to the island's coast, gives it a unique setting, with vineyards and fruit trees characterizing the local landscape. The church stands by a square, offering a serene environment conducive to contemplating the sea, which stretches to the horizon.

Its Centenary History

The origin of the Church of Santa Luzia dates back to the late 16th century, when a local resident, Vicente Pereira Furtado, commissioned the construction of a modest hermitage dedicated to Santa Luzia, next to his residence. This temple, initially thatched and lacking a baptismal font, would later give way to the parish church when Santa Luzia was established as a civil parish in 1617.

A significant episode in its history occurred in 1718, when an intense seismic and eruptive crisis devastated the region, covering the land with a thick layer of lava and destroying the existing temple. Despite the destruction, the church was rebuilt and expanded in 1733, and again in 1800, when, it appears, it acquired its current appearance, though still without its towers. The construction was a slow and phased process, reflecting the economic difficulties of the time. The unequal bell towers were added later, with one of them erected in 1844, and the altarpiece of the main altar painted in 1876.

Architectural Features

The Church of Santa Luzia features a classical-inspired frontispiece that harmonizes with its structure. Its two bell towers, of distinct heights, stand out, lending it a unique character. With a length of 35 meters, the interior of the church has a single nave, leading to three altars dedicated to its patron saints. This simplicity and sobriety contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, inviting contemplation and observation of details.

A Look at Traditions

Annually, on December 13th, the Church of Santa Luzia is the center of celebrations in honor of its patron saint, the Virgin Martyr Santa Luzia, attracting many participants. In addition to the religious festivities, local history preserves a curious tradition linked to this place: the Rooster Festival. In the early days of settlement, for many years, a hidden, pagan ritual took place in this hermitage, involving the offering of animal eyes, accompanied by prayers to ward off the fear of losing sight. It is presumed that, with rooster eyes being one of the most common offerings, the ritual became known by this name, revealing a fascinating layer of the community's ancient beliefs and fears.

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