Church of Senhor Santo Cristo (Praia da Vitória)
Photo: giovanni soffie
Table of Contents
Church of the Holy Lord Christ
Imposing and full of history, the Church of the Holy Lord Christ, also known as the Church of Mercy, is an architectural and spiritual landmark in the parish of Santa Cruz, municipality of Praia da Vitória, Terceira Island. Part of the complex of the Holy House of Mercy of Praia da Vitória, this temple has its roots dating back to 1521, originally dedicated to the Holy Lord Christ.
A Historical Legacy
In 1921, the church suffered a severe fire that almost completely destroyed it, leading to its rebuilding in 1924. Later, in 1980, the earthquake that shook the region caused significant damage, requiring extensive restoration work. During these works, the graves of historical figures such as Pero de Barcelos and D. Leonor Pacheco de Melo were discovered. The devotion to the Holy Lord Christ is reaffirmed annually on January 1st, in a celebration that attracts many devotees and visitors.
Architecture and Sacred Art
The church stands out for its unique religious architecture, with a very high interior divided into two naves by a colonnade, thus forming two churches in one, a rare feature in the archipelago. In addition, it houses an extraordinarily rare image of the Divine Eternal Father, unique in the Azores, surrounded by great devotion. According to tradition, this mysterious image was found adrift at sea, inside a large box. The church is also recognized for its Flemish school paintings and rare sculptures.
Praia da Vitória
Praia da Vitória, a city with a rich history and traditions, located on the east coast of Terceira Island, is known for its magnificent bay, the largest in the Azores, and a setting of unparalleled beauty. The city began to be populated between 1456 and 1474, and has a past marked by agriculture, livestock, and a port of great commercial importance. The development of the city was periodically affected by natural disasters, but it always rebounded, especially with the construction of the new maritime port and the military airport in the 20th century.
In Praia da Vitória, it is worth exploring the historic center, with its traditional streets and typical architecture. Among the notable monuments are the 15th-century Main Church, the Fort of Santa Catarina, the Hermitages of Our Lady of Remedies, São Salvador, and São Lázaro, and the Vitorino Nemésio House Museum. The Serra do Cume and the Miradouro do Facho offer panoramic views over the city and surrounding nature, further enriching the experience of visiting this municipality full of history and culture.
Properties
- Panoramic view Provides a panoramic view. It is usually located in a high place, from where you can enjoy a horizon with beautiful views.
- Sea view Overlooking the sea, thus having a view of this large body of saltwater.
- Can go by car With parking nearby. You can park nearby and walk to the location.
Location
Address: R. da Misericórdia 11, 9760-015 Praia da Vitória
Closest Attractions
The distance is the shortest or by air.
Map View
Showing 21 attractions on the map
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Weather
Videos
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****GRUPO FOLCLORICO CASA POVO VILA DA PRAIA FESTAS SENHOR SANTO CRISTO 2023\8\14
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****Procissão do Senhor Santo Cristo em brampton 2023
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****City Walk Praia da Vitória - Terceira, Azores
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****Praia da Vitória, Terceira | Ocean/Beaches | Azores Top 10 Things To Do