Igreja da Nossa Senhora das Vitórias, São Miguel, Azores
The Igreja da Nossa Senhora das Vitórias (Chapel of Our Lady of Victories) on São Miguel in the Azores is a funerary chapel in the village of Furnas.
History
It was built by José do Canto (1820-1898) a wealthy, local landowner, farmer, bibliophile and botanist to honour his wife after her death.
Constructed in local stone and brick, this Neo-Gothic marvel with artistic stained glass was consecrated in 1886. Set near a lake, this beautiful building is a must-see on the island. No services are held in the chapel, where José do Canto is entombed next to his wife.
José do Canto was born in Ponta Delgada and educated at the University of Coimbra on the mainland. His marriage to his wife, who was seven years younger than him was arranged when he was 22 and she just 15. His wife was the wealthy heiress of a local wine maker.
The Jardim José do Canto in Ponta Delgada is named after him. The six hectare Victorian garden has around 6000 species of plants and is adjacent to the residence of the governor of the Azores in the town center.
Architecture
The Gothic interior of the church mimics the architecture of the great cathedrals of Europe. Of note are the fine wooden pulpit and statues.
The stained glass windows imported from France are also of particular beauty and show scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
Access & Hours
Igreja da Nossa Senhora das Vitórias
Furnas, Azores
Hours: Monday - Sunday 10 am - 6 pm.
Other interesting churches on São Miguel are the Ermida de Mãe de Deus (Hermitage of the Mother of God) and the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião in Ponta Delgada.
Hotels on São Miguel
If you wish to stay on São Miguel near the church on the shores of Furnas Lake try the Casa da Lagoa, a French-style chalet originally built by José do Canto.
Other recommended places to stay in Furnas include the delightful Casa dos Barcos, a property also built by do Canto close to another of his gardens, the Mata-Jardim. He reforested the area and planted oaks and a redwood.
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