Historical Roots and Settlement

Originally settled in the middle of the 16th century, Boaventura emerged on the route connecting the southern part of Madeira to Curral das Freiras. The earliest known settler, Pedro Gomes Galdo, played a pivotal role in establishing the village. He acquired lands and erected a chapel dedicated to São Cristóvão, a place that still bears that name today.

Dom João V of Portugal, through a regal decree dated 4th of February 1733, granted authorisation for the establishment of an ecclesiastical parish. However, he overlooked defining its jurisdiction and attributions at that time. It wasn't until the 18th of November 1836, under the governance of António Alfredo de Santa Catarina Braga, who served as the governor of the bishop and vicar, that a formal charter was issued. This charter officially elevated the clergy to the status of an ecclesiastical parish, completely separating it from the jurisdiction of the Ponta Delgada parish.

Chapel of Santa Quitéira

The focal point of Boaventura is the Chapel of Santa Quitéria constructed in 1835 over the remains of a former 18th Century chapel. Inside there's an impressive ceiling painted in 1929 by Zeferino Jose Nunes (Cirilho).
Rua do Castelo, Santa Maria do Castelo, Alcacer do Sal 7580, Portugal.
32° 49' 11" N | 16° 58' 22" W

Nestled within a breathtaking panorama of fruit orchards and willow plantations (used local wickerwork), Boaventura emerges as a captivating destination for walkers. This picturesque region, renowned for its allure, serves as an ideal starting point for exploratory walks, particularly to the renowned Curral das Freiras.

To fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring nature of Boaventura, embark on invigorating hikes along the intricate network of levadas (irrigation channels) that crisscross the landscape. These include Achada Grande, Faias, Achad, Alves, Pastel, Achada (or Levada do Serrão), and Levada Grande. Each of these enchanting routes originates in the Ribeira dos Moinhos, offering an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts.Nestled within a breathtaking panorama of fruit orchards and willow plantations (used local wickerwork), Boaventura emerges as a captivating destination for walkers. This picturesque region, renowned for its allure, serves as an ideal starting point for exploratory walks, particularly to the renowned Curral das Freiras.

To fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring nature of Boaventura, embark on invigorating hikes along the intricate network of levadas (irrigation channels) that crisscross the landscape. These include Achada Grande, Faias, Achad, Alves, Pastel, Achada (or Levada do Serrão), and Levada Grande. Each of these enchanting routes originates in the Ribeira dos Moinhos, offering an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts.