church · Ouro Preto, MG
Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Pilar
The current building was begun around 1728 and the interior is entirely covered in gilded woodcarving; in 1733, the transfer of the Blessed Sacrament to the church prompted the Triunfo Eucarístico procession. A museum of sacred art operates in the basement.
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 Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Pilar
The Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Pilar is the main church of the Pilar neighborhood and has the most gilded interior in Ouro Preto. It stands on Praça Monsenhor Castilho Barbosa, in the Pilar neighborhood, a few steps from Rua São José.
Construction of the current church began in the early 18th century, around an older chapel. In 1733, the transfer of the Blessed Sacrament to the new church prompted the Triunfo Eucarístico procession, one of the greatest religious festivals of the time. The facade you see today, with two towers, is from the 19th century. The church has been protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) since 1939.
Inside, almost everything is gilded woodcarving: the side altars, the pulpits and the chancel, the work of carver Francisco Xavier de Brito, with the Virgin enthroned among angels.
The visit includes the Museu de Arte Sacra, housed in the church itself, which holds statues, silver pieces, documents and old vestments.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes lets you see the nave, the chancel and the Museu de Arte Sacra without rushing.
Best time
In the morning, when it's calmer for taking in the details of the carving; from April to September it rains less in Ouro Preto.
How to get there
It is in the Pilar neighborhood, near Rua São José, in the historic center. From Praça Tiradentes you can walk, heading down to the lower part of town.
Tip
Set aside time for the Museu de Arte Sacra (sacred art museum), which many people skip: its pieces help you understand the wealth of gold that ended up on the altars.
A look at the place
Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Pilar 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 Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Pilar
Is there an entrance fee for the Basílica do Pilar?
Yes, there is an admission fee, which includes the Museu de Arte Sacra. Check fees and hours at the entrance.
Why is the Igreja do Pilar famous?
For its interior almost entirely covered in gilded woodcarving, the richest in Ouro Preto, with the chancel carved by Francisco Xavier de Brito.
How long does the visit take?
About 45 minutes, including the Museu de Arte Sacra.
Can I walk there from Praça Tiradentes?
Yes. The church is in the Pilar neighborhood, near Rua São José, a short walk downhill from the center.
What is the Triunfo Eucarístico?
The great 1733 procession that carried the Blessed Sacrament to the new Matriz do Pilar, one of the most famous religious festivals of the gold era in Minas.