Convent of the Franciscans and Church of Our Lady of the Conception

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Lajes do Pico > Lajes do Pico > Ribeira do Meio

Location

This historic complex, comprising the convent and the church, is located in the Ribeira do Meio area, within the village of Lajes do Pico. Its position is slightly elevated relative to the street, giving it a prominent presence in the local landscape.

To access the churchyard and the building entrances, it is necessary to climb a few steps, which lead to an upper level where this important village landmark stands.

Origins and Early History

The foundation of this site dates back to a peculiar local tradition. It is said that a lady, Mor Pereira, had a hermitage built on her property, dedicated to Our Lady of Conception. This hermitage would serve to cover the spot where her father had been buried, due to the circumstances of his death which, at the time, prevented burial in consecrated ground.

Subsequently, in the 17th century, the Franciscan friars established their convent next to this hermitage. Historical sources point to the convent's foundation around 1629 or 1641, a period during which the initial hermitage was expanded and integrated to serve as the conventual church.

Architectural Evolution and Key Moments

Over the centuries, the conventual complex and the church underwent various transformations. In the 18th century, particularly after an enlargement in 1768, the church reached a period of great splendor. It was considered one of the most beautiful temples on the island, noted for its rich gilded carving in the altarpieces and its sacred ornaments.

However, the history of this building has been marked by difficult moments. In 1830, a violent fire caused the destruction of a large part of the church's interior and its valuable contents. Later, the 1998 earthquake also caused significant damage, necessitating new consolidation and restoration interventions to preserve its structure.

The Complex Today

After the extinction of religious orders in Portugal in the 19th century, the premises of the old convent were adapted for public use. Currently, this part of the historic building houses various local administration services, such as the Municipal Council, the Public Security Police, and the Finance Department.

The annexed church, which for part of the 20th century served as the parish church of Lajes do Pico, now has a cultural function. It houses the Missionary Museum, which invites visitors to explore another aspect of the history and heritage linked to this place. The entire complex is recognized for its value, being classified as a Property of Public Interest.

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