church · São Joaquim, SC
Igreja Matriz de São Joaquim
Begun in 1918 by Father João Casale and completed in 1957, it was built of pedra-ferro (ironstone basalt) taken from nearby hills and hauled by oxcart. The crown-shaped towers honor Mary, and inside there is a panel depicting Paradise.
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 São Joaquim
The Igreja Matriz de São Joaquim (main church) is the best-known landmark of the coldest city in Brazil. It stands downtown, facing Praça João Ribeiro (square), and catches the eye with its walls made entirely of stone.
The story of the building begins in 1918, with Father João Casale. The stones, basalt (the region's so-called pedra-ferro, or ironstone), were taken from the hills near town and brought in by oxcart. Construction took decades and was interrupted several times.
The two towers resemble crowns, in homage to Mary. On the facade there are sculptures of Adam and Eve, and figures of biblical prophets appear on the side walls. Inside, notice the altar, the colorful stained glass and the large panel depicting Paradise.
The visit is quick and easy, good for any age. The church is on flat ground downtown, and you can combine it with a stroll around the square in front. Since it is a working church, respect Mass times.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes, including the church and the square in front.
Best time
Any time of year; in late afternoon the low light brings out the texture of the facade's stones, and in winter the town is busier with tourists chasing the cold.
How to get there
It is in downtown São Joaquim, facing Praça João Ribeiro (square). You can walk from the shopping area; by car, there is street parking around the square.
Tip
Go inside to see the Paradise panel and the stained glass, then walk around the outside to look at the sculptures on the stone walls.
A look at the place
Igreja Matriz de São Joaquim 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 Joaquim
Is there an entrance fee at the Igreja Matriz de São Joaquim?
No. Admission is free. Since it is a working church, avoid walking around during Mass.
When was the Igreja Matriz de São Joaquim built?
Work began in 1918, with Father João Casale, and went on for decades, with several interruptions.
What is the church made of?
Basalt stone, the region's pedra-ferro (ironstone), taken from nearby hills and hauled downtown by oxcart.
Where is the Igreja Matriz?
In downtown São Joaquim, facing Praça João Ribeiro (square). You can walk there from almost anywhere downtown.
How long does the visit take?
About half an hour is enough to see the church inside and out and stroll around the square.