Parochial Church of Água de Pena / Church of Saint Beatrice

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Madeira > Machico > Água de Pena > Seixo

Location

Situated in the tranquility of Seixo, in Água de Pena, municipality of Machico, this church is located in an inviting churchyard, paved with river stones displaying geometric patterns and old dates carved into the ground, such as 1745. It is a space that offers a serene environment, with stone benches and the presence of cedars, which complement the local atmosphere. Although integrated into a residential area, the surroundings maintain a more rural character, providing a peaceful and reflective visit.

A Window to History

The history of the Church of Santa Beatriz dates back to the 18th century, when its construction began, marking the religious life of the community. Over the centuries, the building underwent various interventions that enriched its architecture and decoration. The main altarpiece, for example, dates from 1749, while the tiles in the chancel were added in the 19th century. In the mid-20th century, the bell tower was raised and the annexed parish house was built, revealing a journey of continuous adaptation and embellishment.

Architecture and Exterior Contrast

The church's exterior stands out for its Baroque-inspired religious architecture, with plastered and white-painted facades, highlighted by a gray-toned plinth. The main facade, facing west, features a portal in a perfect round arch, carved in local stonework with decorative details such as diamond points, topped by a frame enclosing a window with stained glass. The quadrangular bell tower, slightly set back, is crowned by a triangular dentil and features circular clocks and openings where the bells are located, adding a touch of grandeur to the ensemble.

Artistic Details of the Interior

Upon crossing the portal, visitors are met with an interior that reveals a harmonious fusion of decorative and artistic elements. The nave is enriched by a wainscoting of patterned tiles, in blue and grey tones, and a paneled wooden ceiling displaying decorative painting. In the choir loft, the polished wooden balustrade invites contemplation. The two side altarpieces, in white and gilded carving, are dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Our Lady of Consolation. In the chancel area, a set of figurative tiles illustrates moments alluding to the martyrdom of Saint Beatrice, and the imposing main altarpiece, in gilded and white-painted carving, with its pseudo-Solomonic columns and a central painting of the patron saint, are a point of interest and an expression of local sacred art.

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