church · Penha, SC
Capela São João Batista
Begun in 1759 and completed in 1791, it is what remains of the old Portuguese whaling station of Itapocorói, built with stone and mortar made of lime, sand and whale oil. Listed as a heritage site in 1998, it began holding Mass again after repairs in 2021.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Capela São João Batista
Capela São João Batista (chapel) stands on a small rise in Armação do Itapocorói, the historic neighborhood of Penha. It is one of the oldest buildings on the Santa Catarina coast and keeps the memory of the time when the cove was a whaling base.
The chapel was built in 1759 as a community effort. Years later, Armação do Itapocorói became home to one of the largest whaling stations in southern Brazil. The church keeps its original architecture and has been listed by the State of Santa Catarina since 1998, together with the cemetery and the square next to it.
The facade faces the sea, toward the Itapocorói cove. Next to it is a newer church, and the two share the square.
The visit is short and goes well with a stroll along the beaches and the fishing village of Armação. You reach the square by an uphill street and stairs.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes, including the chapel, the square and the view of the cove.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the light falls sideways on the facade and the square is quieter.
How to get there
It is in the Armação neighborhood of Penha, on the northern coast of Santa Catarina, near the waterfront of the Itapocorói cove. You can drive through the neighborhood streets and walk up to the chapel square.
Tip
The chapel is not guaranteed to be open outside service times; check with the parish first if you want to see the interior.
A look at the place
Capela São João Batista 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 São João Batista
When was the Capela São João Batista in Penha built?
In 1759, as a community effort, in Armação do Itapocorói. It is one of the oldest buildings in Santa Catarina.
Is the Capela São João Batista a listed heritage site?
Yes. The chapel, the cemetery and the square next to it have been protected as state heritage since 1998.
What is the chapel's connection to whaling?
The chapel is in Armação do Itapocorói, which in the 18th century became the base of one of the largest whaling stations in southern Brazil.
Where is the Capela São João Batista?
In the Armação neighborhood of Penha (SC), on top of a small rise, with its facade facing the Itapocorói cove.
Can you visit inside the chapel?
The chapel opens for services and parish events. Check with the local parish beforehand.