Santa Maria, similarly to the other islands of the Azores is the stage for the celebrations of the Divine Holy Spirit that are on the list of religious cultural activities that this island has had. These celebrations were introduced by the Franciscans and the Order of Christ throughout the archipelago at the beginning of its settlement, of which the island of Santa Maria was no exception. The great festivities in honour of the Divine Holy Spirit, usually occur on Pentecost Sunday (the seventh Sunday after Easter), where coronations and empires are held around this religious belief that has been maintained for many centuries. During this festivity, gastronomy is fundamental, with the presence of the famous soups of the Holy Spirit, cooked in the old-fashioned way.
In addition to this religious festival that is celebrated all over the island, the people of Santa Maria also dedicated a festival in honour of Senhor Santo Cristo dos Milagres, which attracts many devotees to Vila do Porto, culminating in a great festivity, after the one held on São Miguel, where the Lord’s procession also takes place. Also, on August 15, a bank holiday in honour of the day of the Assumption of Our Lady, festivities take place in her devotion.
Outside the religious aspect, the island of Santa Maria is also the stage of a great festival that makes furore among the Azoreans, being also one of the oldest that takes place since 1984, which is the Maré de Agosto Music Festival, that takes place every year in Praia Formosa, in the month of August, which brings every year to this small island many national and international music personalities.
Other old photographs about Santa Maria island and its people:
Note: photos taken from Facebook of History of the Azores and Facebook of Memories and memories of the island of Santa Maria
Last modified: 16 de July, 2021
