Santo André Center

The Santo André Center is housed in the former Santo André Convent, one of the most beautiful examples of conventual architecture in Ponta Delgada. It underwent several changes over the centuries until it was adapted to become a museum in 1930.

The history of this building dates back to the 16th century, having been founded in 1567 by Diogo Vaz Carreiro and his wife Beatriz Rodrigues Camelo, and given definitively to the feminine order of S. Francisco in 1577. It was the second convent of Poor Clares to be erected in Ponta Delgada, after that of Nossa Senhora da Esperança.

When visiting this property one can appreciate the cloistered convent circuit, highlighting the old entrance, the parlors, the high choir, the low choir and its church, whose facade has a magnificent decoration in volcanic stone, in the style of the 18th and 19th centuries, with the 18th century windows standing out. Inside, with a single nave, the side walls and vaulted ceiling have fresco paintings made in 1820, and the altars and pulpit are made of gilded woodcarving from the same period.

In addition to the Convent Memory circuit, the Natural History circuit can be found in this nucleus.

• OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK
• Monday - Closed
• Tue. to Sun. - 10:00 to 17:30