church · Mariana, MG
Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos
Built in the 18th century at the top of a hill, it has a layout with an elliptical nave, and part of its interior decoration was left unfinished. The churchyard serves as a lookout over the roofs and towers of the historic center.
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 Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos
The Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos (church) stands at the top of a hill in Mariana, above the old houses of the historic center. It is one of the most architecturally unusual churches in town and can be seen from afar, at the end of the steep streets that climb from the center.
The church was founded in 1731, but construction only began in the mid-18th century and progressed slowly, with long pauses. In the early 19th century it was abandoned without its towers, which were only built between 1920 and 1922, under the direction of the priest and architect Arthur Hoyer, in a style different from the original design.
The floor plan is rare in Minas: two interlocking ellipses and, at the back, a rectangular block occupied by the sacristy. The interior decoration was never completed. The high altar, carved in wood, was left without the gilding and painting common in Minas churches, and holds a large statue of Saint Peter.
The churchyard, at the top of the hill, serves as a lookout over the roofs and towers of the historic center. The climb up the stone streets is steep, which is worth considering for those with mobility issues.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour to 40 minutes lets you see the interior and enjoy the view from the churchyard.
Best time
On clear days, ideally in the late afternoon, when the low light brings out the roofs and towers of the center seen from the churchyard.
How to get there
It is on Rua Dom Silvério, at the top of São Pedro hill, a few blocks from the square with the São Francisco de Assis and Carmo churches. You can walk up the stone slope, which is steep, or drive to the churchyard.
Tip
Climb at an easy pace and spend some time in the churchyard: the view of Mariana's historic center from up there is one of the highlights of the visit.
A look at the place
Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos 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 Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos
Why does the Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos look different from the other churches in Mariana?
The floor plan is made of two interlocking ellipses, a rare design in Minas, and the towers were only built between 1920 and 1922, in a style different from the original design.
Was the church ever finished?
Not completely. The interior decoration was never finished, and the carved high altar was left without the gilding and painting common in Minas churches.
Can I walk there from downtown?
Yes. The church is at the top of Rua Dom Silvério, near the center, but the stone slope is steep. If you prefer, you can drive up to the churchyard.
Is there a nice view from the top?
Yes. The churchyard, at the top of the hill, serves as a lookout over the roofs and towers of the historic center.
Is it open to visitors?
Check the visiting days and hours on the Mariana Tourism Portal before climbing the slope.