Church of Saint Saviour

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Madeira > Santa Cruz > Santa Cruz > S. Sebastião

History

- Construction in 1500: The original church of Santa Cruz became too small for the local population, leading to the construction of the current church in the 16th century.

- Royal Patronage: King D. Manuel I sponsored the construction, and local residents also contributed with labor and money.

- Special Main Chapel: The Main Chapel, with Gothic and Manueline influences, is notable for its decorative details, including the Cross of Christ and paintings representing the life of Christ.

Architecture

- Manueline / Late Gothic Style: The church follows the Manueline/Late Gothic style and was possibly designed by Diogo Boitaca.

- Facade: The facade features an axial portal with a pointed arch, a rose window, and architectural elements from the 18th century.

- Interior Details: The interior has three naves with hexagonal pillars, a pulpit, and a wooden ceiling decorated by João Firmino Fernandes.

Points of Interest

- Spínola Tomb: In the lateral nave of the Gospel, is the tomb of the Spínola family, former sugar merchants.

- Altar of Our Lady of the Conception: This altar in gilded and blue carvings is dedicated to Our Lady of the Conception.

- Chapel of Souls: A 17th-century chapel with late-Baroque altarpieces.

- Tombstone of João de Freitas: In the Main Chapel, a tombstone in Flemish style honors João de Freitas, with Manueline details.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igreja_Matriz_de_Santa_Cruz_(Madeira)

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