Church of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe, Baroque church in Guadalupe, Santa Cruz da Graciosa, Azores.
The Church of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe is a baroque structure with a rectangular floor plan, triangular gable topped with a clock, and a prominent single tower integrated into its front facade. The building incorporates several interior features and was completed over a period of several decades during the 18th century.
Work began in 1713 but a strong earthquake in 1717 caused major damage and delayed completion significantly. The first mass was not held until 1765, reflecting the lengthy reconstruction effort needed after the seismic event.
The church serves as the focal point of an annual procession where the statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe travels between the parish church and a nearby mount, bringing the community together for shared religious observance. This tradition reflects how local faith is expressed through movement and collective participation rather than remaining confined to the building itself.
The church is located near the main pilgrimage route to the Império of Our Lady of Guadalupe, making it straightforward to find and access. The building serves primarily as an active place of worship, so visiting times may vary based on religious services and community events.
Inside the church sits an organ built in 1775 by José Leandros da Cunha, ranking it as the second oldest in the entire Azores archipelago. This rare musical instrument is an example of 18th century craftsmanship and continues to shape the acoustic experience of worship services.
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