church · Sabará, MG
Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
A three-nave main church from the early 18th century, considered one of the richest of its time in gilded woodcarving. The floor holds old tombstones and the ceiling has painted wooden coffers.
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 Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
The Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição is the main church of Sabará, in the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area, and one of the oldest parish churches in Minas Gerais. It is in the lower part of the historic town.
It was built in the early 18th century, in the first years of the gold cycle, and has been protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) since 1938. Outside, it has two towers and a sober facade that gives little hint of what lies inside.
The interior is divided into three naves, something rare among the parish churches of Minas Gerais. Gilded woodcarving covers the high altar and the side altars, and the pulpits are considered among the most beautiful in Minas. The nave ceiling is divided into coffers, and the sacristy doors have Chinese-inspired paintings in gold and red.
It is a visit for those who enjoy sacred art and history, with no physical effort. There is a wide stone staircase at the entrance. It pairs well with the nearby Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes to see the nave, the altars and the details at a relaxed pace.
Best time
In the morning, during the dry months of fall and winter, when the sky is usually clear and the light is good for photographing the facade.
How to get there
It is on Praça Getúlio Vargas, in the lower part of Sabará's historic center, near the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó. From Belo Horizonte, you can get to Sabará by car or metropolitan bus; in the center, you can get around on foot.
Tip
Check the opening days and hours in advance and allow time to look at the ceiling and the pulpits; from there, walk to the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Ó.
A look at the place
Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição 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 Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
What is special about the Matriz in Sabará?
The gilded woodcarving of the altars, the pulpits, the coffered ceiling and the Chinese-inspired paintings. It is also one of the few parish churches in Minas with three naves.
How old is the Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição?
It dates from the early 18th century. It has been protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) since 1938.
How long does the visit take?
30 to 45 minutes.
Can I walk to the Igreja do Ó?
Yes. The two churches are close to each other, in the lower part of Sabará.
Is the church open every day?
Visiting hours may change. Confirm in advance with the parish or Sabará's tourist information service.