church · Canela, RS
Catedral de Pedra
Built between 1953 and 1987 in English Neo-Gothic style, the Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora de Lourdes has a 65-meter central tower. The carillon of 12 bronze bells, cast in Italy, was installed in 1972.
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 Catedral de Pedra
The Catedral de Pedra (Stone Cathedral) is Canela's main postcard image, in Serra Gaúcha. Its official name is Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora de Lourdes: despite the nickname, it isn't a cathedral, but the town's main parish church.
It was built of basalt stone, in English Gothic style, with work that began in 1953 and wasn't finished until 1987. The central tower is 65 meters high and houses a carillon of 12 bronze bells cast in Italy.
Inside, the church has stained glass windows depicting the Litany of Our Lady, panels painted by Rio Grande do Sul artist Marciano Schmitz, Stations of the Cross by Uruguayan artist Pablo Herrera and a carved wooden altar inspired by the Last Supper.
It's in the center of Canela, facing a square, and the visit is easy for all ages. At night, the facade hosts a projected light show that draws plenty of people to the square.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour to an hour is enough to see the facade, go inside the church and stroll around the square in front.
Best time
By day, to see the stained glass with light coming through and the stone of the facade in detail; at night, for the light show on the facade. Check show and Mass times on the parish website or at the tourist information center.
How to get there
It's in the center of Canela, on Praça da Matriz, about 7 km from Gramado. From the town center you can walk; from Gramado, go by car, taxi or bus.
Tip
Arrive a little before the light show to get a good spot on the square, facing the facade. During Mass, visits to the interior are limited.
A look at the place
Catedral de Pedra 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 Catedral de Pedra
Is there an entrance fee for the Catedral de Pedra?
No. Admission to the church is free. During Mass, tourist visits are limited.
Is the Catedral de Pedra really a cathedral?
No. Its official name is Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. The nickname stuck, but the church is not the seat of a diocese.
How tall is the Catedral de Pedra?
The central tower is 65 meters high and houses a carillon of 12 bronze bells cast in Italy.
Is there a light show at the Catedral de Pedra?
Yes. At night, the facade hosts a projected light show. Check show times before you go.
How long does the visit take?
Half an hour to an hour, including the facade, the interior and the square in front.