Igreja São Francisco de Paula


The most impressive of the town’s seven churches is the oldest, built in 1761. It's worth visiting for its beautiful painted ceiling as well as original features like the altar and pulpit. There's also a small museum of religious art.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Palácio Conde dos Arcos

0.13 MILES

The restored colonial governor’s residence is a very handsome piece of work. The guided tour (English usually spoken) takes in antique furniture, a…

2. Museu de Arte Sacra

0.15 MILES

In the old baroque Igreja da Boa Morte, this appealing museum has a good selection of 19th-century religious sculptures by renowned local artist José…

3. Casa de Cora Coralina

0.16 MILES

This handsome house is the birthplace of the area’s renowned poet, Cora Coralina (1889–1985). It contains period furniture and a small display on her life…

4. Quartel Do XX

0.21 MILES

This 18th-century barracks has been modified over the years, but parts still date from its construction in 1747, making it the oldest building in town…

5. Chafariz de Cauda

0.28 MILES

This restored yellow baroque fountain dates from 1778, though no water flows.

6. Museu das Bandeiras

0.3 MILES

The fascinating Museu das Bandeiras is an old jail (1766–1950) that’s full of antiques and original furniture – the 1.5m-thick cell walls, originally made…