Casa-Sia

Nothing on these rocks in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean happened by chance. The Cult of the Holy Spirit (Portuguese: Culto do Divino Espírito Santo), also known as the Cult of the Empire of the Divine Holy Spirit (Portuguese: Culto do Divino Espírito Santo), is a religious subculture, inspired by ancient Christian mysticism, associated with the Azorean Catholic identity, consisting of iconography, architecture and religious practices that have continued in many communities in the archipelago, as well as in the wider Portuguese diaspora. In addition to the Azores, the Cult of the Holy Spirit is alive in parts of Brazil.

The eclecticism and freedom of faith in the Azores that was at the basis of Joachim de Fiore’s doctrine is very relevant both to the present day and to hospitality in the Azores.

In addition, the iconography of the cult – a dove, is joyful and peaceful, which is what the philosophy of the Azorean people also manifested in Calheta de Nesquim.

Since medieval times, during the festivities there has been a procession to collect the offerings (a bread/cake that some people bake at home) which are brought to a meeting point (here in Calheta de Nesquim the village square) where they are then distributed to any passers-by.

This part of the tradition doesn’t happen every year, as it depends on the organizing committee. The interesting thing is that the starting point of this procession is right in front of Casa Sia.