Convent of St. Joseph

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Faro > Lagoa > Lagoa

Location

The Convent of S. José is located in the central area of the city of Lagoa, integrated into its urban fabric. Its location makes it easily accessible for those walking through the town center, serving as a cultural and historical landmark in the area.

Origin and Historical Evolution

The history of this building has its roots in the 17th century, with the initial establishment of a community of nuns on the site. The convent as we know it today, however, took on a more defined form from the mid-18th century onwards. It began as a refuge, a place of shelter for young girls and orphans, under the vocation of the Carmelite Sisters.

Over time and with social and political changes, the convent adapted. After the extinction of religious orders in the 19th century, the building was transformed into a college, under the direction of the Dominican Sisters. In the 20th century, it came into the possession of the Lagoa City Council, serving for years as a primary school and housing various public services. A profound rehabilitation at the end of the 20th century allowed the old convent to be reborn with its current function as a cultural center.

Architecture and Memories

Upon visiting the Convent of S. José, it is possible to observe elements that tell its long history. The old chapel, whose foundation predates the convent itself, is one such space of interest, still presenting traces of its original design and details such as altars in gilded woodcarving. It also houses an image of Saint Joseph with the Child Jesus, dating from the 18th century.

One of the most unique testimonies of its past as a welfare institution is the preservation of the Foundling Wheel, a historical artifact that evokes the convent's charitable mission. The building is organized around a cloister, an open-air inner courtyard that centralizes the space and offers an atmosphere of serenity.

An Active Cultural Space

Today, the Convent of S. José is a vibrant cultural center in the municipality of Lagoa. Its various spaces are dedicated to culture, hosting exhibitions, shows, and diverse events. There are permanent exhibition areas documenting the fascinating history of the building, and spaces dedicated to temporary shows, often featuring works by local and international artists.

The chapel, despite no longer holding regular Catholic services, and a small auditorium are frequently the stage for artistic events, from concerts to dance and poetry performances. Visiting this place is to delve into the history of Lagoa and discover a cultural meeting point that preserves the memory of the past while embracing the dynamism of the present.

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