Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Igreja e Convento de São Francisco
6
The complex of the Church and Convent of
St. Francis is one of Brazil's most impressive
Baroque monuments. The complex was
constructed between 1708 and 1750. The
convent's church stands out for its rich and
opulent interior. The inner walls and the ceiling
are largely covered in gold leaf. The main altar
and the large side altars are magnificently
carved out of wood and in typical Baroque
style, ornately decorated with angels, birds,
mermaids, fruits, and leaves. An enormous
silver chandelier hangs above intricate wooden carvings,
and hand-painted blue-and-white Portuguese tiles.
Statue of
St. Francis
.
Franciscan Shield
Featuring the crossed
forearms of Jesus and St.
Francis, the shield represents
the bond between the two.
São Pedro de Alcântara
The altar of São Pedro de
Alcântara, carved by
Brazilian artist Manuel
Inácio da Costa, is a
particularly fine example
of Brazilian Baroque.
Doors and
windows
in bright
tones adorn the outer
walls of the church.
Façade
The church façade dominates
the Largo de São Francisco
with imposing twin bell towers.
Oil Painting of
St. Francis
The oil painting
depicting an
event in the life of
St. Francis in the
church entryway
is one of the classic
examples of Brazilian
Baroque Illusionism.
STAR SIGHTS
.
Franciscan Shield
. Main Altar
. Azulejos
For hotels and restaurants in this region see p377 and pp402-403
