Day Centre Santa Casa da Misericórdia

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Community Centre

District: Madeira > Calheta > Estrela > Levada de São João

Location

The Day Centre of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia is located in the tranquil area of Levada de São João, in the locality of Estrela, which belongs to the municipality of Calheta. This area is representative of the Madeiran landscape, with the presence of iconic levadas, water channels that cross the island and make it unique. The municipality of Calheta offers a diverse environment, combining coastal beauty with higher and serene landscapes, ideal for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature.

The structure is situated on a generous plot of land, approximately 7075 m2. This vast space allows for harmonious integration with the natural surroundings and provides an uncluttered environment, with outdoor areas that invite well-being, reflecting the picturesque character of this part of Madeira island.

A Legacy of Care

This Day Centre is an integral part of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Calheta, an institution with a remarkable past in the region. Established on October 7, 1535, through a Royal Decree from D. João III, the Santa Casa was born with the purpose of meeting social needs and supporting the most vulnerable members of the community. For almost five centuries, it has been a fundamental pillar of social support, with special attention to the elderly population.

Thus, the Day Centre, although equipped with contemporary architecture, is the continuator of a secular tradition of solidarity and assistance, reflecting the institution's permanent commitment to social well-being in Calheta.

Conception and Environment

Inaugurated in 2009, the building that houses the Day Centre was designed with a modern and functional approach, with the aim of creating a welcoming environment. Its architectural design integrates spacious and well-lit areas, designed for social interaction and activity development, including zones such as living rooms, a chapel, and a gymnasium. The renovation and expansion project aimed to provide facilities that combine safety with current demands.

The size of the interior spaces, along with the extensive grounds surrounding the building, contributes to a calm and pleasant atmosphere. This particularity allows the structure to harmonize with the natural surroundings of Levada de São João, promoting a sense of serenity.

Symbol of Solidarity

More than just a building, the Day Centre of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia represents a tangible symbol of the solidarity and community support that mark the identity of Calheta. It is the visible expression of a mission initiated almost five hundred years ago, which has adapted to modern times to meet the needs of society. Its presence in Levada de São João reaffirms the commitment of the local community to the dignity and care dedicated to its most experienced members.

Observing this place allows one to appreciate the value of social assistance and the importance of institutions that, like the Santa Casa, shape the identity and values of a region over generations.

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