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Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara: A Majestic Testament to Faith and History

Discover the imperial history and architectural grandeur of Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara, a neo-Gothic masterpiece in Petrópolis.

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The Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara in Petrópolis is a stunning example of French neo-Gothic architecture, serving as a historical and spiritual landmark. Dedicated to Saint Peter of Alcântara, the city's patron saint, it houses the Imperial Mausoleum, the final resting place of Brazil's last emperor, Dom Pedro II, and his family.

A brief summary to Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara

  • R. São Pedro Alcântara, 60, R. São Pedro Alcântara, 60-252, Petrópolis, Centro, State of Rio de Janeiro, 25685-300, BR
  • +55242242-4300
  • Visit website
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Imperial Mausoleum to see the final resting place of Brazil's last emperor and his family.
  • Ascend the tower for panoramic views of Petrópolis and a close-up look at the cathedral's massive bronze bells.
  • Explore the Auto-Expository Gallery Princess Isabel for insights into the cathedral's history and architecture.
  • Admire the stained glass windows, sculptures, and paintings by renowned artists within the cathedral.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Museu Imperial, walk approximately 500 meters north along Av. Koeler. The Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara will be on your left. The walk is relatively flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Terminal Rodoviário Governador Leonel Brizola, take bus line 100 towards the city center. Get off near the Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara. The bus fare is approximately R$4.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Petrópolis. A short taxi ride from the bus terminal to the Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara will cost approximately R$15-R$25. Note: Prices may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

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Discover more about Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara

Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara, located in the mountain city of Petrópolis, is one of the main postcards of the city. Dedicated to Saint Peter of Alcântara, the patron saint of Petrópolis, Brazil, and the Brazilian Monarchy, its construction, which began in 1884, reflects a devotion to detail and European inspiration. The cathedral stands as a testament to both faith and imperial history. The cathedral's architecture is inspired by French Gothic cathedrals, characterized by ogival arches and a verticality that evokes spirituality. Inside, the Imperial Mausoleum holds the remains of Emperor Dom Pedro II, Empress Dona Teresa Cristina, Princess Isabel, and Count D'Eu, along with Dom Pedro, Prince of Grão-Pará, and his wife, D. Elisabeth. Visitors can admire sculptures by Jean Magrou and Bertozzi, stained glass windows, and paintings by Carlos Oswald. The Gothic altar contains relics of Saint Magno, Saint Aurélia, and Saint Tecla, brought from Rome by Cardinal D. Sebastião Leme. The main doors of the Cathedral weigh 2,400 kg each. The cathedral also boasts the largest organ in Latin America, with 2,227 tubes, 33 registers, and three manual keyboards. The metallic entrance door was made by the São Paulo Apprentice School, with each leaf weighing 2,400 kg. Visitors can ascend the tower for panoramic city views and see the five bronze bells, cast in Germany, which together weigh nine tons. The Auto-Expository Gallery Princess Isabel, located in the upper part of the cathedral, offers insights into the church's history and views of Av. Koeler.

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