Our Lady of the Snows

Category: Religious Architecture > Church

District: Madeira > Calheta > Prazeres > Picos

Location

The Church of Our Lady of the Snows is located in the village of Prazeres, a serene and elevated area within the municipality of Calheta. It is situated in the area known as Picos, in an environment that invites tranquility and landscape observation. Its location offers visitors a perspective of the rural surroundings of Prazeres, where the green of the mountains meets the proximity of the sea, creating a distinctive setting of the island of Madeira.

Historical Notes

The history of the Church of Our Lady of the Snows is a testament to the persistence and faith of the local community. Its origin dates back to an old hermitage that, in 1676, began to be disestablished to form a new parish. However, the path to its definitive autonomy was long and complex. Throughout the 18th century, the parish was even extinguished, going through periods where it functioned as a chaplaincy or curacy, dependent on other parishes. It was from 1751 that the current building began to be constructed, a landmark in its reaffirmation. The church experienced moments of great turmoil, such as the theft and desecration of its tabernacle during the Miguelist rule, events that, at the time, caused deep consternation and united the population in acts of reparation.

The Patron Saint's Festival

Annually, on August 4th and 5th, the Church of Our Lady of the Snows becomes the center of one of the most important celebrations in the region: the festival in honor of its patron saint. August 4th is marked by the procession of the delegates, a unique tradition where residents from the various areas of the parish bring, in procession, offerings and produce that are then displayed and sold in a bazaar set up in the churchyard. This gesture symbolizes the strong community bond and support for the parish. The highlight of the festival, on August 5th, celebrates the invocation of Our Lady of the Snows, whose name is linked to an ancient and curious Roman legend. This legend narrates a miracle involving snow in summer, which indicated the location for the construction of a temple dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

A Community Symbol

The Parish Church of Our Lady of the Snows is much more than a place of worship; it is a pillar of the identity and social life of Prazeres. As the center of parish life, it reflects the devotion and dedication of the community over centuries of history. Its architectural presence in the landscape of Calheta evokes the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Madeira, offering visitors an opportunity to understand the profound importance of faith and traditions for the Madeiran populations. The style of the building, which dates back to 18th-century constructions, gives it a singular beauty that harmoniously integrates into the natural environment of Prazeres.

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