museum · Mariana, MG
Museu Arquidiocesano de Arte Sacra
Founded in 1961 by Archbishop Oscar de Oliveira and opened the following year, it occupies a mansion in the historic center. The collection has about 2,000 pieces of sacred art, including statues, paintings, silverware and furniture.
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 Museu Arquidiocesano de Arte Sacra
The Museu Arquidiocesano de Arte Sacra de Mariana (Archdiocesan Museum of Sacred Art) holds one of the most important collections of sacred art in Minas Gerais. It occupies the Casa Capitular, in the historic center, considered one of the most beautiful Rococo buildings in Brazil.
The mansion was built between the late 18th and early 19th centuries by the canons of the Cathedral, for the meetings of the Chapter, with a design attributed to master builder José Pereira Arouca. In 1926 it was donated to the Archdiocese, which used it as the seat of the Curia and the church archive. At the initiative of Archbishop Oscar de Oliveira, it became a museum and opened on September 22, 1962.
The collection has about 2,000 pieces, from churches, chapels, seminaries and the old Episcopal Palace. There are sculptures attributed to Aleijadinho, paintings by Manoel da Costa Athayde, silver pieces used in worship, vestments and sacristy furniture. One of the highlights is a silver pontifical altar set donated by King João V.
It is a relaxed visit, good for those interested in the Minas Gerais Baroque. The historic building has no adaptations for people with reduced mobility, so it is worth checking beforehand.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One hour lets you go through the rooms at a relaxed pace and see the main highlights of the collection.
Best time
Any time of year; it is a good option for rainy days or the hottest hours of the afternoon, between walks around the historic center.
How to get there
It is at Rua Frei Durão, 49, in the historic center of Mariana. If you are staying downtown, you can walk there along the stone streets.
Tip
Mariana residents get in free; other visitors pay admission, with half price for students, teachers and seniors. Check the hours before you go.
A look at the place
Museu Arquidiocesano de Arte Sacra 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 Museu Arquidiocesano de Arte Sacra
Is there an entrance fee for the Museu de Arte Sacra in Mariana?
Yes, there is an admission fee, with half price for students, teachers and seniors. Mariana residents get in free.
What is in the collection?
About 2,000 pieces of sacred art: sculptures attributed to Aleijadinho, paintings by Manoel da Costa Athayde, silver used in worship, vestments and sacristy furniture.
How long does the visit take?
About an hour to see the rooms at a relaxed pace.
Where is the museum?
In the Casa Capitular, at Rua Frei Durão, 49, in the historic center of Mariana. You can walk there from anywhere in the center.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
The historic building has no adaptations for people with reduced mobility. It is worth contacting the museum before your visit.