church · Cuiabá, MT
Catedral Basílica do Senhor Bom Jesus
Completed in 1973 on the site of the old main church demolished in 1968, it is about 40 meters tall and 100 meters long. Inside, a 20-meter mosaic of Christ the King by Polish artist Arystarch Kaszkurewicz dominates the altar.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catedral Basílica do Senhor Bom Jesus
Catedral Basílica do Senhor Bom Jesus is the main Catholic church in Cuiabá (MT) and the seat of the Archdiocese. It faces Praça da República, in the historic center, and is one of the city's postcard images, with two towers that have clocks.
Its history begins in 1722, with a simple wattle-and-daub chapel, rebuilt several times over the centuries. The old church was demolished in 1968, and the current cathedral, made of reinforced concrete with modern lines, was built on the same site and opened in 1973. The following year, it was given the title of basilica.
Inside, highlights include the large altar mosaic with the figure of Christ the King, the stained glass that filters the light and the chandeliers hanging high in the nave. The church keeps the image of the Senhor Bom Jesus, Cuiabá's patron saint. Underground there is a crypt with the remains of figures linked to the city's history, such as the bandeirante (colonial explorer) Pascoal Moreira Cabral, considered its founder.
Part of the old church's collection, such as altars and the facade clock, is at the Museu de Arte Sacra de Mato Grosso, which is worth a visit if you want to understand the church's history. The cathedral is an active church: there are Masses throughout the week, and visitors should respect the services.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes is enough to see the nave, the altar and the square in front; allow more time if you want to attend Mass.
Best time
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when Cuiabá's heat eases and light streams through the stained glass; the dry season, from May to September, has steadier skies for photos of the facade.
How to get there
It is on Praça da República (square), in downtown Cuiabá, near Praça Alencastro. From downtown you can walk; from other neighborhoods, several bus lines run through the central area, and ride-hailing apps are available.
Tip
Dress appropriately for a church and avoid going in during Mass just to take photos. Combine the visit with a walk through the squares and historic buildings downtown.
A look at the place
Catedral Basílica do Senhor Bom Jesus in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral Basílica do Senhor Bom Jesus
Is there an entrance fee at the Cuiabá Cathedral?
No. Entry is free, as at other active churches. During Mass, keep your visit discreet.
How long does the visit take?
About 30 minutes is enough to see the nave, the altar with the mosaic and the square in front.
Where is the Cuiabá Cathedral Basilica?
Facing Praça da República, in the historic center of Cuiabá, near Praça Alencastro.
When was the current cathedral built?
The old church was demolished in 1968, and the current cathedral opened in 1973, on the same site.
Who is buried in the cathedral crypt?
The crypt holds the remains of figures from Cuiabá's history, such as the bandeirante (colonial explorer) Pascoal Moreira Cabral, and of former archbishops.