church · Ouro Preto, MG
Igreja de São Francisco de Assis
Considered Aleijadinho's masterpiece, it brings together the artist's architectural design, soapstone doorway and woodcarving with the ceiling painting by Mestre Ataíde. It is regarded as the high point of Brazilian Baroque.
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 Francisco de Assis
The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis is the church of the Third Order of Saint Francis in Ouro Preto and stands on Largo de Coimbra, in the historic center. It is considered the masterpiece of Aleijadinho, who designed the church and much of its carved decoration.
Construction began around 1766, and the interior decoration continued into the early 19th century. The church has been protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) since 1938 and is part of the historic ensemble of Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Outside, the round towers, set back from the facade, and the large relief medallion over the door, showing Saint Francis receiving the stigmata, stand out. Inside, the highlight is the nave ceiling, painted by Mestre Ataíde, with Our Lady surrounded by musician angels, as well as the carved altars and the soapstone pulpits.
In front of the church is the traditional soapstone handicraft market of Largo de Coimbra. The visit is simple and quick, but the surrounding streets are stone-paved and very steep, which is a challenge for people with reduced mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour to 45 minutes lets you see the facade, Ataíde's ceiling and the altars, and then stroll through the market on the square.
Best time
In the morning, with the facade lit up and the market on the square getting started; from April to September it rains less in Ouro Preto.
How to get there
It is on Largo de Coimbra, in the historic center. From Praça Tiradentes, it is a few minutes' walk down Rua Cláudio Manoel.
Tip
Take your time looking at the ceiling from the middle of the nave: Ataíde's painting creates the illusion that the ceiling opens to the sky. Photography inside is usually not allowed, so make the most of photographing the facade outside.
A look at the place
Igreja de São Francisco de Assis 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 Francisco de Assis
Is there an entrance fee for the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis in Ouro Preto?
Yes, there is an admission fee. Check prices and hours at the entrance or through the town's tourism channels.
Why is the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis so famous?
Because it is considered the masterpiece of Aleijadinho, who designed the church and carved the facade, and because its ceiling holds Mestre Ataíde's best-known painting.
How long does the visit take?
Half an hour to 45 minutes, without rushing. Add a little more time if you want to see the soapstone market on the square.
Can I walk there from Praça Tiradentes?
Yes. It is a few minutes' walk down Rua Cláudio Manoel to Largo de Coimbra, along sloping stone streets.
Can I take photos inside the church?
Photography inside is generally not allowed. You can photograph the facade and the square as much as you like.