The Black Madonna

A rare painting of the Black Madonna.

This is by a Spanish painter and is in the Convent of Santa Clara in Funchal. The significance of the Black Madonna is complex. Some think it dates back to the Moorish times, others link it to the Slave trade. Tenerife and the Canaries were prominent and this painting is in Funchal, dating back to the times when Spain ruled Portugal.

It was lovely to return to the Convent (even if the ascent is exhausting). These days it is a more open order and houses a thriving kindergarten.

Levada walk in the parish of Gaula this afternoon.