church · Biguaçu, SC
Igreja de São Miguel Arcanjo
It's part of the architectural and landscape ensemble of the old Vila de São Miguel, listed by Iphan in 1969. Considered one of the oldest churches in the state, it's the result of enlarging a church built in the first half of the 18th century.
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 de São Miguel Arcanjo
The Igreja de São Miguel Arcanjo is the heart of the old Vila de São Miguel, in Biguaçu, in Greater Florianópolis. It's considered one of the oldest churches in Santa Catarina and is part of the village's architectural and landscape ensemble, listed by Iphan in 1969, along with the aqueduct and the townhouse of the Museu Etnográfico Casa dos Açores.
The village began as a parish in the 18th century, a settlement of Azorean colonists. The church was inaugurated in 1751 and changed over the centuries: the current building seems to result from enlarging an older chapel. In 1777, when the Spanish invaded Santa Catarina Island, Portuguese authorities moved to São Miguel, which served for a time as the seat of government.
The church stands on slightly raised ground, by the BR-101, with the bell tower beside the facade, palm trees around it and the Atlantic Forest-covered hill behind. Next to it is a small walled cemetery.
The visit is quick and relaxed, good for those who enjoy history and colonial architecture. It's worth combining it with the Aqueduto de São Miguel and the Museu Etnográfico Casa dos Açores, in the same ensemble.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes for the church alone; allow half a day to see the whole Vila de São Miguel ensemble.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon on dry days, when the side light flatters the facade and it's less hot; any season works.
How to get there
It's in São Miguel, in Biguaçu, right off the BR-101, a few kilometers from the town center and about half an hour by car from Florianópolis, without traffic. The easiest way is by car.
Tip
Be careful getting on and off the BR-101: use the side access roads and park off the highway, next to the village ensemble.
A look at the place
Igreja de São Miguel Arcanjo 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 Miguel Arcanjo
Where is the Igreja de São Miguel Arcanjo?
In the old Vila de São Miguel, in Biguaçu (Santa Catarina), by the BR-101, in Greater Florianópolis.
When was the Igreja de São Miguel built?
It was inaugurated in 1751. The current building results from enlarging an older 18th-century church.
Is the church a protected heritage site?
Yes. It's part of the architectural and landscape ensemble of Vila de São Miguel, listed by Iphan in 1969.
What else can I visit near the church?
The Aqueduto de São Miguel and the Museu Etnográfico Casa dos Açores, in the same ensemble, plus the Cachoeira de São Miguel.
Why is Vila de São Miguel important?
It's one of the oldest Azorean settlements in Santa Catarina and, in 1777, during the Spanish invasion of the island, it served for a time as the seat of government.