Mother Church of Our Lady of the Conception

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Santa Cruz das Flores > Santa Cruz das Flores > Boavista

Location

The Main Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is located in the town of Santa Cruz das Flores, in the area known as Boavista. It occupies a central and somewhat elevated position in the urban fabric, making it visible from various points in the town. Access is via staircases that lead to a wide front courtyard, bordering a walled garden that includes an old octagonal well. This setting gives it a particular prominence in the surrounding area.

Historical Roots

The temple we see today began to be built in the 18th century, in 1781, on the site where an older church already stood, dating back to the town's foundation. The work extended over a long period, more than seven decades, which influenced the church's final appearance, particularly its facade, which features different constructive phases.

The church was formally consecrated only in 1859, marking the conclusion of this extensive undertaking. The recognition of its historical and architectural importance led to its classification as a Property of Public Interest, highlighting its value in the context of the heritage of the island of Flores and the Azores.

Exterior Elements

Observing the church from the outside, its robust structure stands out, with whitewashed walls contrasting with the dark stonework used in the finishing and decorative elements, such as the plinths, quoins, cornices, and window frames. The main facade is particularly interesting, flanked by two symmetrical bell towers that rise with their bulbous domes.

The facade features three distinct levels, punctuated by doors and windows with elaborate frames. A Latin inscription dedicated to the Virgin Mary, under the invocation of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, is also visible. The appearance of the towers and facade reveals the different construction stages, with the upper part of the facade exhibiting a visibly later and simpler style.

Inside the Church

The interior of the Main Church of Santa Cruz das Flores is organized into three naves, separated by arcades supported by pillars. Immediately at the entrance, above the nave area, is the choir loft, accessible via stairs located in the towers.

One of the spaces that deserves attention is the baptistery, located at the base of one of the towers, characterized by its vaulted ceiling and walls covered with polychromatic tiles. The pulpit, supported by an elegant console, stands out on one of the sides. The main chapel, at the back, is dominated by an altarpiece that reflects the artistic taste of periods subsequent to the initial construction, with gilded and painted carving elements in revivalist styles, close to neoclassicism. The ceilings of the naves and the main chapel, built of wood and with a vaulted appearance, with painted panels (including the blue ceilings of the naves and sacristy), confer a particular atmosphere to the temple's interior.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Matriz_da_Concei%C3%A7%C3%A3o_(Santa_Cruz_das_Flores)

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