Church of the Saint Michael Cemetery

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > São Mateus da Calheta > Biscoitinho

Location

Situated in the picturesque locality of São Mateus da Calheta, one of the historical and fishing centers of the municipality of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island, Azores, the Old Church of São Mateus is found in the area designated Biscoitinho. Its location offers a genuine setting of the Azorean landscape, where the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean merges with the tranquility of local life. The surrounding environment invites observation of the traditional architecture and the serenity that characterize the island's coastal communities.

Memory and Heritage

The Old Church of São Mateus is a remarkable testament to the historical legacy and faith that shaped the parish of São Mateus da Calheta. The term "Old" in its name indicates its condition as a predecessor to the current parish church, marking its importance in the early days of settlement and in the religious and social evolution of the locality. This building is a direct link to the generations that, over the centuries, established themselves in this area, many of them with strong ties to maritime activities, and whose lives were organized around this spiritual center.

Its preservation, even if partial, allows for an understanding of the resilience and devotion of a community that faced the challenges of island life, from the action of the elements to the need to build and maintain its symbols of faith. It thus represents a landmark in local history and an important element of the cultural heritage of Terceira Island.

Architectural Features

The architecture of the Old Church of São Mateus reflects the characteristics and simplicity of Azorean religious buildings from past eras. Its construction is likely marked by the use of local volcanic stone, an abundant material on the island, which gives robustness and a particular tone to the building.

Although its features may have been altered over time or present the austerity typical of an older structure, it is expected to reveal the functionality and sobriety that were priorities in constructions intended for worship. The observation of its details, such as the arrangement of the openings or the structure of the church's body, offers a perspective on the construction techniques and the architectural style prevalent on the island in past times.

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