church · Tiradentes, MG
Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio
An 18th-century main church with an interior of entirely gilded woodcarving and one of the doorways attributed to Aleijadinho, as well as an old Portuguese organ. It stands at the top of the main street, with a staircase and a sundial in front.
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 Santo Antônio
The Matriz de Santo Antônio is the main church of Tiradentes and one of the most beautiful in Minas Gerais. It stands at the top of the historic center, on a stone churchyard with a staircase, and is the town's postcard image.
The parish was created in 1710 and the church was built and decorated over the 18th century. The current Rococo facade was designed by Aleijadinho in the early 19th century, with the stone doorway that rises to the round window and two towers with clocks.
Inside, the nave and chancel are covered in gilded woodcarving in the João V style, with several altars. The church holds an organ brought from the city of Porto, in Portugal, and installed in 1788. In the churchyard is the 1785 sundial, another symbol of the town.
The visit is relaxed, but to get there you have to climb stone streets and the churchyard staircase, which is a challenge for people with reduced mobility.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour lets you see the nave, the woodcarving and the organ, plus a few more minutes for the churchyard and the sundial.
Best time
In the morning, before the bigger crowds of tourists in the center; from April to September it rains less in the region.
How to get there
It is at the top of the historic center of Tiradentes. From Largo das Forras you can walk there in a few minutes, climbing stone streets.
Tip
Don't miss the sundial in the churchyard, next to the church, and take a look at the clocks on the towers.
A look at the place
Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio 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 Santo Antônio
Is there an entrance fee for the Matriz de Santo Antônio?
Yes, there is an admission fee. Check prices and hours at the entrance.
Who designed the facade of the Matriz de Santo Antônio?
The facade design is by Aleijadinho, from the early 19th century, with the stone doorway and the two towers with clocks.
How long does the visit take?
About half an hour, plus a few minutes for the churchyard and the sundial.
Can I walk there from Largo das Forras?
Yes, it is a few minutes on foot, climbing stone streets to the churchyard.
What is special inside the church?
The gilded woodcarving that covers the nave and the chancel, and the organ brought from Porto, installed in 1788.