church · São Lourenço, MG
Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço
A Neo-Colonial church, blending Baroque and Neoclassical elements, with three naves. The interior has European stained glass and Neoclassical religious statues.
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 Lourenço
The Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço is the town's main Catholic church and the seat of the Paróquia São Lourenço Mártir. In 2016 the Pope gave it the title of Minor Basilica, and it is now also called the Basílica de São Lourenço Mártir. It stands on Avenida Dom Pedro II, the main avenue, downtown.
The parish was created in 1927. The cornerstone of the current church was laid on March 17, 1935, at a ceremony with President Getúlio Vargas and Darcy Vargas as sponsors. The construction was funded by the community and completed gradually over the following years.
In front, a flight of steps leads to the statue of Saint Lawrence, the patron saint, and the clock tower is one of downtown's landmarks. Inside, highlights include the stained glass, the religious statues on the altars and the paintings. Sources describe the architecture as a mix of styles.
The visit is quick and easy, right on the downtown walking route. In August, the patron saint's festival has Masses and a procession through the town's streets.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes, or the length of a Mass.
Best time
During the day, to see the light streaming through the stained glass; in August, during the Feast of Saint Lawrence, the church is busier and decorated.
How to get there
It is on Avenida Dom Pedro II, in downtown São Lourenço, about 400 meters from the Parque das Águas. You can walk there from almost anywhere downtown.
Tip
Go in quietly outside Mass times to see the stained glass at your leisure; service times are on the parish's channels.
A look at the place
Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço 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 Lourenço
Is the Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço a basilica?
Yes. In 2016 it received the title of Minor Basilica and is also called the Basílica de São Lourenço Mártir.
Where is the Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço?
On Avenida Dom Pedro II, downtown, about 400 meters from the Parque das Águas.
When was the Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço built?
The cornerstone was laid on March 17, 1935, with Getúlio Vargas as sponsor of the ceremony. The construction was completed gradually over the following years.
What can you see inside the Igreja Matriz de São Lourenço?
The stained glass, the religious statues on the altars and the interior paintings.
When is the Feast of Saint Lawrence?
In August, the patron saint's month, with Masses and a procession through town. Check the schedule on the parish's channels.