Sant Llàtzer

Gazing upon Sant Llàtzer, one can almost hear the whispers of the devout villagers who, in the mid-19th century, yearned for a church of their own. Sant Llàtzer stands as a testament to their unwavering faith and tireless efforts. Before 1857, the village of Pla de na Tesa lacked a central place of worship. The influential owner of the Son Alegre estate, moved by the community’s spiritual need, spearheaded the construction of Sant Llàtzer. Between 1858 and 1864, the church rose, stone by stone, fueled by the generosity and hard work of the villagers. Their alms and labor transformed the vision into reality, a fact proudly proclaimed by the Latin inscription “EX ELEEMOSINIS CONSTRUCTA PIORUM” etched upon the apse’s roof. Sant Llàtzer became more than just a building; it became the heart of the community, a place where social bonds were forged and celebrated. The neoclassical style of Sant Llàtzer echoes the elegance of Greco-Roman architecture. The simple, single-nave design, adorned with eight side chapels, exudes a quiet grandeur. The grand doorway, framed by a pediment and flanked by imposing Doric pilasters, is a testament to the era’s aesthetic sensibilities. The church’s story continued beyond its initial completion in 1864. The sacristy and bell tower, a harmonious blend of neo-Gothic and classical elements, were later additions. Two bells, one from Barcelona and the other from Palma, call the faithful to worship. The priest’s vicarage-house, nestled beside the church, completes the ensemble. Within Sant Llàtzer, two images of the saint himself capture the visitor’s attention. One, standing beside the altar, served as the church’s first patron saint, a poignant link to its early days. The other, gracing the main altarpiece, was crafted in the 1960s by local sculptor Francesc Salvá. Interestingly, these two figures represent different Saint Llàtzers: one from the Gospel parable and the other, the Bishop of Marseilles. Outside, a public cistern, dating back to 1877, stands as a reminder of the village’s past. While the exact location of the trough remains a mystery, it is believed that cattle once quenched their thirst in this very square. Perhaps, as their shepherds sought refreshment at the nearby Can Membre tavern, they too found solace in the presence of Sant Llàtzer.