Chapel of Our Lady of Deliverance

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Madeira > Calheta > Estreito da Calheta > Lombo dos Reis

Location

The Chapel of Our Lady of Deliverance stands in the tranquil locality of Lombo dos Reis, an area belonging to the village of Estreito da Calheta. Situated in the municipality of Calheta, this chapel is located in a higher, serene area, away from the central bustle, inviting contemplation and an atmosphere of calm.

Origin and Heritage

The history of the Chapel of Our Lady of Deliverance dates back to the 17th century, having been founded in 1656 by Diogo Ferreira Mesquita and D. Isabel Menezes. Over the centuries, the temple underwent various transformations, including a notable reformulation in the 19th century. Recognized for its historical and cultural importance, the chapel is classified as a Monument of Municipal Interest, safeguarding its legacy for future generations. Its ownership varied over time, eventually being integrated into the patrimony of the Parish Church's assets.

Architecture and Sacred Art

The chapel's architectural features combine Mannerist and Revivalist styles, revealing the evolution of artistic trends over the centuries. Its structure is marked by a simple longitudinal plan, complemented by a sacristy, a tribune that served as a choir, and a porch next to the frontispiece. Inside, the altarpiece of the main altar stands out, where the image of the Virgin and Child is prominently featured, flanked by angels and with a symbolic representation of captives in prayer, alluding to "deliverance". In the sacristy, another unique altarpiece illustrates the story of Saint Francis Xavier and the crab. Among the devotional images are the figures of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Saint Rita of Cascia, Saint Francis of Assisi, and Saint Anthony of Lisbon.

Devotion and Celebration

The Chapel of Our Lady of Deliverance is a place of deep devotion, not only for the inhabitants of Estreito da Calheta but also for many devotees from other parts of the island. Annually, on the second Sunday of October, the chapel is the central point of a religious festival that attracts numerous pilgrims. This celebration, once one of Madeira's most popular events, was marked by a pilgrimage (romaria) and a traditional fair (arraial) that united faith and popular tradition, where `açucenas` (white lilies gathered from nearby mountains) played a symbolic role in the procession.

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