Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Açores > Praia da Vitória > Santa Cruz > Casa da Ribeira
Situated in the picturesque area of Casa da Ribeira, in Santa Cruz, this temple is located in the municipality of Praia da Vitória. The church stands on a platform, giving prominence to its churchyard in relation to the surrounding square. Casa da Ribeira is a place that stretches through a valley, flanked by slopes and wooded hills. From this point, the landscape unfolds, offering views of the town of Praia da Vitória and its bay.
The history of the Church of S. João Batista dates back to the 16th century, when a chapel was established on this site in 1545 by João Gonçalves Duraço de Barros. An element of particular interest is an old stone inscription, visible on the temple's exterior wall, which marks its foundation. This site was, at one time, a burial ground, reflecting the ancient practice of interment within churches. The current parish of Casa da Ribeira was formally established in 1964.
The church's architecture is distinguished by its stone masonry construction, plastered and painted white, contrasting with the ashlar elements, such as the cornerstones, pilasters, and window frames, which feature a grey tone. The main facade, crowned by a cross and a counter-curved finial, incorporates four openings, including the axial door and side windows. The body of the temple is complemented by a square-plan bell tower, culminating in an octagonal pyramidal spire with openings. Inside, the single nave features its triumphal arch in ashlar masonry, a valuable piece that possibly dates from the 18th century. The choir, positioned above the entrance windbreak, completes the interior configuration.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.7202473,-27.0874478
Coordinates DMS: 38°43'12.9"N 27°05'14.8"W