Igreja da Misericórdia – Terceira Island

Located in the historic center of Angra do Heroísmo, on Terceira Island, in the Azores archipelago, the beautiful Igreja da Misericórdia stands out for its spectacular 18th-century Baroque architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The main features of the Igreja da Misericórdia are the central nave flanked by two bell towers with a dome, decorated in white and blue, making it a highlight in its location. Inside, you’ll find a chancel and six side chapels with stunning sculptures and exclusive period paintings.

 
Photo by David Stanley

The church is located in the Pátio da Alfândega, near the marina of the beautiful Angra do Heroísmo, with its main facade facing the stunning bay.

When visiting Terceira Island, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Igreja da Misericórdia, an iconic part of the region’s and the Azores’ history.

History of Igreja da Misericórdia

Igreja da Misericórdia was built on the same site where the first hospital in the Azores was established. The hospital was founded by a commitment of the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit on March 15, 1492, with one of its founders being the renowned João Vaz Corte Real, Captain of the Donatary of Angra and the discoverer of Newfoundland.

The first temple began construction at the end of the 15th century, where the Holy Spirit resided. It was only in the 18th century that the current Igreja da Misericórdia temple was built, combined with the existing brotherhood. You can see two altars facing each other: to the left, the altar of the Holy Spirit, and to the right, the altar of Santo Cristo das Misericórdias.

Photo by Carlos Cruz

The church’s facades are plastered and painted, making a strong impact with their robust structure. Interesting features include the woodwork, the statues, the canvas depicting the descent of the Holy Spirit over the Virgin and the Apostles, and the beautiful 18th-century tile panels.

Also notable are the “catacombs”: galleries beneath the floor designed to insert steel columns, ensuring the temple’s structural support.

In 1980, the Igreja da Misericórdia was severely damaged by an earthquake. It has since been restored and is classified as a Public Interest Building, part of the Central Zone of the City of Angra do Heroísmo. The temple belongs to the Santa Casa de Misericórdia, which carries out social solidarity work for the community.

Photo by Carlos Cruz

Visiting the Church

The Igreja da Misericórdia is open to visitors at the following times:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: closed to visitors

Admission is free, and there is the option of a guided tour in Portuguese or English.

Location on the Map

Photo by Marco Derksen

Since it’s not far from the central street of Angra do Heroísmo, walking is ideal, allowing you to enjoy the harmony of the city’s colorful houses.

Igreja da Misericórdia is a true symbol of the region, so don’t forget to take amazing photos from various incredible angles.