SACRED ARCHITECTURE: ANALYSIS OF THE INFLUENCE OF ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS ON THE CHARACTERIZATION OF THE LITURGICAL SPACE OF THE CATEDRAL METROPOLITANA DE NOSSA SENHORA DAS VITÓRIAS IN VITÓRIA DA CONQUISTA – BAHIA

Abstract

This article sought to analyze the influence of architectural elements on the characterization of the liturgical space of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Victories, in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, highlighting how these components contribute to the function and definition of the religious space. The research is applied, exploratory, and qualitative, and is configured as a case study, using direct observation, technical visits, photographs, notes, and bibliographic analysis as research methods. The results highlight the symbolic expressiveness of the building, consolidating it as a landmark of Catholicism in the city, through significant elements such as the layout of the nave and presbytery, paintings, stained glass windows, and images, which favor the mystagogy of the architectural space. However, critical analysis identified some inconsistencies with contemporary liturgical guidelines, such as the segregation of the choir from the congregation and the disuse of the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, demonstrating the conflict between historical preservation and current liturgical demands. It is concluded that, despite these differences, the Cathedral preserves its symbolic identity and sacredness, maintaining its character as a liturgical temple.