church · São João del-Rei, MG
Igreja de São Francisco de Assis
A Baroque church with a curved facade designed by Aleijadinho, surrounded by a churchyard of royal palms and by the cemetery where Tancredo Neves is buried. It is the town's postcard image.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Igreja de São Francisco de Assis
The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis is the main postcard image of São João del-Rei and one of the great churches of the Minas Gerais Baroque. It stands on Praça Frei Orlando, across the stream from the oldest part of the historic center, and belongs to the Third Order of Saint Francis.
Construction began in 1774. The original design is by Aleijadinho, but it was considerably modified by the master builder Francisco de Lima Cerqueira, who changed the towers and other elements. Aleijadinho also left sculptural works in the church, which is protected by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) along with its entire collection.
Outside, the facade with rounded towers and the doorway carved in soapstone stand out. In front, the churchyard and the garden with royal palms, designed by Roberto Burle Marx, make up the most photographed view in town. Inside, there are gilded carved altars with Rococo influence.
In the Order's cemetery, behind the church, is the tomb of former president Tancredo Neves, born in São João del-Rei. On Sundays, Masses usually feature Baroque music, a strong tradition in the town.
The visit is relaxed and suits all ages: the church is on flat ground, in a square in the center.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour, counting the interior, the churchyard and the cemetery.
Best time
On a clear day, in the late afternoon, when the low light illuminates the facade and the palms; winter, which is drier, usually has clearer skies.
How to get there
It is on Praça Frei Orlando, in downtown São João del-Rei (MG). You can walk from the historic center and from the Maria Fumaça (steam train) station; there are also taxis and parking on nearby streets.
Tip
Before going in, cross the garden to the far end of the square: from there the whole facade appears between the palms. Check on site for visiting hours and whether there is an admission fee.
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
Who designed the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis in São João del-Rei?
The original design is by Aleijadinho, but it was modified during construction by the master builder Francisco de Lima Cerqueira, who changed the towers, among other things.
When was the church built?
Construction began in 1774 and continued over the following decades.
Is Tancredo Neves buried at the Igreja de São Francisco?
Yes. The former president's tomb is in the cemetery of the Third Order of Saint Francis, behind the church.
Who designed the palm garden in front of the church?
The churchyard garden, with royal palms, follows a landscape design by Roberto Burle Marx.
Can I attend a Mass with Baroque music?
Yes. On Sundays, Masses usually feature Baroque music; check the times at the church.