Church of Saint Michael the Archangel

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Praia da Vitória > Lajes > Lajes

Location

Situated in the tranquility of the parish of Lajes, in the municipality of Praia da Vitória, the Church of São Miguel Arcanjo stands in a position that offers expansive and inspiring perspectives. From this location, it is possible to contemplate the vast expanse of the sea and the imposing beauty of the mountains that shape Terceira Island, integrating harmoniously into the Azorean landscape.

A History of Resilience

The history of the Church of São Miguel Arcanjo dates back to 1564, the year its primitive temple was built. Throughout the centuries, this construction faced the forces of nature, being successively damaged and demolished by earthquakes. However, with each challenge, the community committed itself to its reconstruction and expansion, allowing it to acquire the form admired today. The dates inscribed on its structure, such as "F-1564 / A-1826 / R-1977", testify to these phases of foundation, enlargement, and renovation, while the churchyard pavement displays the date of 1883, marking another moment of intervention in this place of faith.

The Exterior Architecture

The exterior of the church stands out for its sober and imposing architecture. Its main facade, wide and divided into two floors by a cornice, hosts the entrance door at the center, flanked by windows. On the upper floor, the size of the windows fills the tympanum, where a clock marks time. The rectangular bell tower, situated to the left of the facade, rises with its perfect round arches for the bells, culminating in a hexagonal pyramidal spire covered with tiles. Elements such as the cornerstones, cornices, window frames, and pinnacles are in ashlar, contrasting with the plastered and whitewashed masonry that defines the body of the building. The churchyard, elevated by steps, confers dignity to the main entrance.

The Interior and Its Art

Upon entering, visitors are met with an interior space divided into three naves, separated by quadrangular columns that support rows of arches. Above the entrance is the choir loft, and at the end of each side nave, an altar invites contemplation. On the walls, niches adorned with Neo-Baroque inspired tiles enrich the ambiance. The chancel, separated from the central nave by a triumphal arch in ashlar, reveals an altarpiece that evokes the Portuguese Baroque style. In this space, a French sculpture of Our Lady of the Rosary stands out, flanked by images of Saint Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of the church, and Saint Peter. The Chapel of Souls, with images of Saint Sebastian and Saint Anthony, and the Chapel of Our Lady of Good Journey, with its respective image, complement the set of altars and devotions. On the Epistle side, a gilded stand with an organ adds a sonorous and artistic dimension. Among the sacred collection, a gilded silver chalice with rich engravings stands out, considered a work of high artistic value on the island, and a pontifical embroidered with fine gold, which bear witness to the richness of the religious heritage.

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