Hermitage of Our Lady of Health

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Açores > Vila do Porto > São Pedro > Chã de São Tomé

Location

The Hermitage of Our Lady of Health is located in the area of Chã de São Tomé, nestled within the rural landscape of the parish of São Pedro, in Vila do Porto, on Santa Maria Island, Azores. Its position is slightly elevated in relation to the road, with a curved churchyard that offers an inviting access via a central staircase, adorned by a balustrade. This setting confers upon the site an atmosphere of serenity, flanked by cultivated fields that characterize the surroundings.

History and Significance

The history of the hermitage dates back to the 17th century, with the construction of a primitive chapel in the year 1664, originally dedicated to Saint Joseph. This first construction was located in Flor da Rosa Alta, on the lands of D. Mariana de Menezes, who endowed it with an annual tribute for its maintenance. However, popular devotion already venerated an image of Our Lady of Health at this location. Over time, the original hermitage fell into decay and abandonment, leading to its demolition. The hermitage seen today was rebuilt and transferred to its current location in 1858, maintaining the dimensions of the previous one and perpetuating the invocation to Our Lady of Health.

Architectural Features

The Hermitage of Our Lady of Health stands out for its simplicity and harmony, with an architecture that reflects the style of religious buildings in the region. The building has a rectangular plan, constructed of plastered and whitewashed stone masonry, a striking feature of the Azorean landscape. The main facade, facing west, is pierced by a portal with a pointed arch, and above the entrance, a stone cartouche displays the date 1858. The ensemble is topped by a curved gable, with a cross at the highest point and pinnacles on the sides, giving it a distinct presence. The sacristy is attached to the left side and the roof is made of traditional half-barrel tiles, with a double-pitched roof and double eaves.

Interior Details

Upon entering the hermitage, one perceives a unique and tranquil space, with the walls also whitewashed, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The varnished wooden ceiling contributes to the sense of welcome. On the main wall, a large full arch stands out, framing the main altarpiece. This altarpiece, made of painted carving in white, blue, and gold, has three axes defined by four columns with plain shafts and capitals with phytomorphic motifs. In the center, a double-arched niche, formerly the location of the image of the Virgin, completes the composition. In the keystone of the arch preceding the altar, the inscription "N.S.S." can be observed, an abbreviated reference to Nossa Senhora da Saúde (Our Lady of Health), the patron saint of the chapel.

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