Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Açores > São Roque do Pico > Cais do Pico
The Church of the Convent of São Pedro de Alcântara stands in the locality of Cais do Pico, within the parish and municipality of São Roque do Pico. Its position is privileged, situated in an area that combines the charm of the old town center with the vibrant atmosphere of the port area. For visitors, the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean is a striking element, offering a sense of connection to the sea that has shaped the island's life throughout the centuries. The surrounding environment is inviting for a relaxed stroll, allowing one to appreciate the coastal landscape and local architecture.
The origins of this church date back to the mid-17th century, linked to a singular event. History tells that Sebastião Ferreira Pimentel, a native of São Roque do Pico, made a vow of gratitude after his vessel was attacked by pirates en route to Lisbon. Surrounded by a dense cloud, he is said to have sighted a resplendent female figure on the main mast, saving him from danger. In 1658, in recognition of this grace, his parents, Sebastião Ferreira de Melo and Margarida Vieira, had a small hermitage dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Livramento built at Cais do Pico.
Later in the 18th century, the need to accommodate the Franciscan friars from Lajes do Pico, who moved to assist the population of São Roque after the volcanic eruption of 1718, prompted the construction of the convent which would later incorporate this primitive hermitage. The construction of the convent and the church began in 1721, with the church consecrated on Christmas Eve 1724, and the buildings completed shortly after, in 1726.
The interior of the church reveals a remarkable artistic and architectural ensemble. Its spacious choir, once used for the recitation of the Divine Office, stands out. Although the church is dedicated to São Pedro de Alcântara, the main altar houses a beautiful image of the Virgin of the Assumption. The carving on the various altars is elaborate and highly detailed, enriching the sacred space. In the sacristy, a large sacristy chest of considerable dimensions, built from jacaranda wood, originating from Brazil, constitutes a liturgical furniture piece of great value. The chancel also features the beauty of historical tiles and several sacred images, contributing to an atmosphere of contemplation and spiritual retreat.
Throughout its history, this building served various functions beyond its religious purpose. After the friars left, it served as a prison, a courthouse, and even an entertainment venue. Currently, its classification as a Property of Public Interest, since 1977, underscores its importance in the heritage of Pico Island.
Associated with the friars' departure in 1832, after the extinction of religious orders, a legend persists that enriches local folklore. It is said that the religious abandoned the convent through a secret underground passage connecting the building to Portinho da Baía de São Roque, from where they embarked for an unknown destination. This story gave rise to the popular expression "levar a volta dos frades" (to take the friars' turn/path), used to describe a sudden and mysterious disappearance, a testament to the depth with which the convent and its church became rooted in the community's culture and memory.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convento_de_São_Pedro_de_Alcântara
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.52316274158274,-28.318718862388415
Coordinates DMS: 38°31'23.4"N 28°19'7.4"W
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