ÉGLISE DE LA MISÉRICORDE

Opposite the port of Angra, the imposing ^18th-century Church of Mercy was built over an ancient ^15th-century chapel dedicated to the Holy Spirit. The first hospital in the Azores, founded by the confreres of the Espírito Santo Fraternity, stood next door. The present church was built between October 21, 1728 and June 4, 1746. With its two large blue towers topped by a stone dome on either side of its imposing façade, it is one of the epinal images of Angra do Heroísmo. Inside, there is a single nave and a large choir surrounded by six chapels on either side. There are also someazulejo panels and a painting depicting the apparition of the Holy Spirit to the Virgin and the Apostles.

If you're passing through, don't hesitate to push open the door. You'll be welcomed (in French!) and can even take a short guided tour (allow a few minutes) to discover the premises. You can also go upstairs, into the gallery above the side chapels, to enjoy magnificent views of the building's interior. Not to be missed.

Opposite the church, on the forecourt, approach the statue of Vasco da Gama, unveiled in 1883. It is said that the famous Portuguese explorer landed in Terceira to bury his brother, Paulo de Gama, who died of illness on his return voyage from India in 1499. Deeply affected by his death, Vasco de Gama is said to have stayed on the island for between one and three months.