church · Sabará, MG
Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó
A small chapel from the early 18th century, considered one of the richest examples of the Minas Gerais Baroque. The interior has gilded woodcarving and paintings in red, blue and gold with Asian influence.
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 Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó
The Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó (chapel) is one of the oldest and best-known churches in Sabará, in the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. It is small, has a single tower and has become the town's postcard image. It is also called Igreja do Ó and is dedicated to Nossa Senhora da Expectação do Parto (Our Lady of the Expectation).
Construction began around 1717, and the chapel was already standing in the early 1720s. The bell tower was added only in the late 18th century. The complex is protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute).
Outside, the facade is simple. The contrast comes when you step in: the interior is entirely covered in gilded woodcarving, with ornate arches and columns, and paintings dominated by red, blue and gold. Some panels have pagodas, birds and other Chinese-inspired motifs, known as chinoiseries, rare in the Minas Gerais Baroque.
The visit is quick and relaxed, in a small space; to get in, you have to climb a few stone steps. It is worthwhile for those who enjoy sacred art, history and photography, and pairs well with a walk around the other churches of the historic center.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes to see the interior and the surrounding square at a relaxed pace.
Best time
In the morning, on the dry days of fall and winter, when the light is good for photographing the facade and the sky is usually clear.
How to get there
It is on Largo de Nossa Senhora do Ó, in the lower part of Sabará, near the Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição. From the Matriz you can walk; from Belo Horizonte, you can get to Sabará by car or metropolitan bus.
Tip
Combine the visit with the nearby Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, and check the opening days and hours in advance, as they are usually limited.
A look at the place
Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó 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 Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó
Why is the Igreja do Ó so famous?
For its interior covered in gilded woodcarving and its paintings with Chinese-inspired motifs, rare in the Minas Gerais Baroque. The chapel is considered one of the richest examples of the Baroque in Minas.
How old is the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó?
It dates from the early 18th century: construction began around 1717. The bell tower was added at the end of that century.
How long does the visit take?
Between 20 and 30 minutes. The chapel is small.
Can I walk there from the Matriz in Sabará?
Yes. The chapel is near the Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, in the lower part of town.
Is the church open every day?
Opening hours are limited and may change. Confirm in advance with the parish or Sabará's tourist information service.