Empire of the Divine Holy Spirit of Serreta

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > Serreta > Terreiro

Location

The Império do Divino Espírito Santo of Serreta is located in the parish of Serreta, an area within the municipality of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island, Azores. It is situated in the area known as Terreiro, in a small square. This urban space is flanked by the regional road and local buildings, creating a peaceful environment integrated into community life. The square, paved with cobblestones, is adorned with iron flower boxes and flowers, contributing to the welcoming aesthetic of the place.

The Azorean Tradition of the Impérios

This building represents one of the many "Impérios do Espírito Santo" (Empires of the Holy Spirit) that are an intrinsic part of the Azorean landscape and culture. The impérios are places of great importance for the devotion to the Divine Holy Spirit, a tradition deeply rooted in the islands' identity. Although modestly built, these buildings are central points for the Festas do Espírito Santo (Holy Spirit Festivals), occasions when the community gathers to celebrate sharing and solidarity, essential values that characterize these religious and cultural manifestations.

Architectural Details and Vibrant Colors

The Império of Serreta was built in 1922, featuring distinct architectural traits and a "popular flavor" style. Its main facade, with a rectangular plan, stands out for its slightly convex profile. It is visually striking due to the richness of its polychromy, displaying a palette of vibrant colors such as green, red, blue, and yellow, which highlight the pilasters, moldings, and decorative elements. The central gable of the building is distinctly topped by a Holy Spirit crown, a fundamental symbol of devotion. In the center, above the main portal, a circular oculus adds a special touch to the ensemble. Access to the império is via a double-flight staircase, raised on a plinth, inviting contemplation of this example of Azorean popular religious architecture.

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