Lajedo Parish Church / Church of Our Lady of Miracles

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Lajes das Flores > Lajedo

Location

Situated in the picturesque locality of Lajedo, in the municipality of Lajes das Flores, on the stunning Island of Flores, this church stands at a central point within the parish. Its position in a churchyard, a level and partially landscaped platform, provides a serene and prominent setting within the urban fabric, inviting contemplation and a peaceful pause.

Its isolated presence, yet integrated into the village's fabric, allows for an unobstructed view of its main façade and bell tower, highlighting its importance as a center of local community and religious life.

History and Significance

The history of Lajedo Parish Church dates back to the 18th century, with its initial construction recorded in 1771, driven by the contributions of José Francisco Mendonça. Its relevance to the local community was underscored by the creation of the Lajedo parish in 1823, through a royal charter from D. João VI, marking a turning point in the religious organization of the parish.

The building admired today is largely the result of a significant rebuilding that occurred in 1868, under the guidance of Father Francisco Luiz de Freitas Henriques. Restoration and embellishment works extended, being completed after 1876. A notable episode from this period involved the sale of gold ornaments belonging to Our Lady of Miracles, with the aim of financing the interior finishes, namely the plasterwork and the construction of the main altarpiece, demonstrating the community's deep bond with its temple.

Architecture and Details

The church features sober architecture, yet with interesting details that characterize it as a religious example from the 18th and 19th centuries in the region. Its structure is built of stone and brick masonry, covered with tiles, and stands out for its single nave and narrower chancel.

On the main façade, above the entrance portal, a commemorative plaque can be seen, perpetuating the memory of the 1868 rebuilding. Laterally, to the left, stands the rectangular bell tower, composed of two distinct levels and topped by an octagonal dome that adds a distinctive touch to its silhouette. Inside, the altarpieces and the pulpit, with their revivalist-style carving work, are elements of particular interest, contrasting with the wooden ceiling of the nave and chancel, which simulates a vault, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and spirituality.

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