church · Itaguaí, RJ
Igreja Matriz de São Francisco Xavier
Built between 1718 and 1729 as part of a Jesuit settlement, it's at the origin of the old town. The complex, on raised ground, is listed by the state heritage agency Inepac, including wooden statues of São Francisco Xavier and Nossa Senhora do Pilar.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Igreja Matriz de São Francisco Xavier
The Igreja Matriz de São Francisco Xavier marks the founding of Itaguaí. The square and the core of the old town of São Francisco Xavier de Itaguaí grew up around it.
The church was built by the Jesuits between 1718 and 1729, on the site of a first chapel used to catechize Indigenous people. It was part of a complex with a church, college and cloister; the college was demolished in 1961. The building stands on higher ground, a common choice in Jesuit works so the church could be seen from afar.
The complex is listed by the state heritage agency Inepac. Protection covers the church, the wooden statues of São Francisco Xavier and Nossa Senhora do Pilar and the gateways to the cemetery next door.
The visit is quick and relaxed. Take a look at the facade with its bell tower, the square in front and the gateway of the old cemetery. It's a good start if you want to learn about Itaguaí's history before heading to the beaches of the Baía de Sepetiba.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour is enough to see the facade, the square and the cemetery gateway at a relaxed pace.
Best time
In the morning, when the light hits the facade and downtown is still quieter.
How to get there
It's in downtown Itaguaí, by Praça Dom Luís Guanella. Itaguaí is crossed by the Rio-Santos highway (BR-101), and from downtown you can walk there.
Tip
The church isn't always open outside Mass times; to see the interior, check the hours with the Diocese of Itaguaí first.
A look at the place
Igreja Matriz de São Francisco Xavier 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 São Francisco Xavier
Who built the Igreja Matriz de São Francisco Xavier?
The Jesuits, between 1718 and 1729. The church was part of a complex with a college and cloister and gave rise to the town of Itaguaí.
Is the church a protected heritage site?
Yes. The complex is listed by the state heritage agency Inepac, including the church, the wooden statues of São Francisco Xavier and Nossa Senhora do Pilar and the cemetery gateways.
Is there an entrance fee?
There's no admission charge. The church isn't always open outside Mass times; check the hours with the Diocese of Itaguaí.
How long does the visit take?
About half an hour to see the facade, the square and the cemetery gateway.
Where is the church?
In downtown Itaguaí, by Praça Dom Luís Guanella, next to the old cemetery.