After the discovery of São Miguel, Lagoa was one of the first places to be populated, and the first inhabitants were allocated in the area of the current Santa Cruz Church. Currently, it has about 9,000 inhabitants, covering a total area of 14.26 km2 and is considered as a development pole where industry and commerce are concentrated.
Santa Cruz Church
Located near the coast and built at the end of the 15th century, this church was once the place where Gaspar Frutuoso served as interim parish priest. Despite its date of construction, its features show traces of the 18th century, highlighting, in its interior, its vaulted chancel. Currently, it has, in attached spaces, a museum space.
Convento dos Franciscanos
Over the years, this building has served various purposes, having been, for example, headquarters of public services, installation of Franciscan friars (hence its name), among others. Its baroque style and its interior in gilded woodcarving make this one of the richest buildings on the island and one of great historical and patrimonial importance.
Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário
The Rosário Church was built in the eighteenth century on an old chapel built there in the sixteenth century, having undergone several restoration works, renovations and improvements. Here, the artifacts such as the pipe organ and multiple sculptures by Joaquim Machado de Castro are some of the highlights.
Chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
This small chapel was founded in the early 16th century by Pedro Velho Cabral, nephew of one of the most infamous Portuguese navigators, Gonçalo Velho Cabral. Inside, the front of the altar is covered with Hispano-Arabic tiles.
Museum of Lagoa – Azores
The Lagoa – Azores Museum is located in the Convento dos Franciscanos (Franciscan Convent) and has local branches in the other five parishes of the municipality. Here you can find photographic, sculptures, paintings and educational exhibitions about the local culture.
Municipal Swimming Pool Complex
The Lagoa Municipal Swimming Pool Complex is a bathing space with crystal clear Atlantic natural pools. These are open to the public for a fee of 1€ per person.
Rota da Água Trail
In the parish of Santa Cruz, at Casa da Água Trail Point you can start some stunning trails that pass by several historical and natural monuments of São Miguel.