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Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé: A Glimpse into Brazil's Imperial Past

Explore a former cathedral that witnessed Brazil's imperial history, with stunning Rococo architecture and a glimpse into royal events.

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The Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé, located in Rio de Janeiro's Centro district, is a beautifully restored church that played a significant role in Brazil's imperial history. Once the city's cathedral, it witnessed royal coronations, weddings, and baptisms, and boasts a stunning Rococo interior.

A brief summary to Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé

  • Monday 7 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-4 pm
  • Friday 7 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active church.
  • Check the church's website for mass schedules and special events.
  • Visit the Museu do Sítio Arqueológico to see historical artifacts discovered on the site.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Praça XV de Novembro and explore nearby historical buildings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Praça XV de Novembro, the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé is easily accessible on foot. Walk towards the corner of Rua Sete de Setembro and Rua Primeiro de Março. The church is located at Rua Sete de Setembro, 14, directly across from the Praça XV. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest Metro station is Carioca. From there, walk southeast on Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, then turn right onto Rua Sete de Setembro. The church will be on your left. Alternatively, the VLT (light rail) has a stop at Praça XV, right in front of the church. A single metro or VLT ticket costs R$4.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. Simply provide the destination address (Rua Sete de Setembro, 14, Centro) to the driver. A short taxi ride within the Centro area typically costs between R$10 and R$20, depending on traffic and distance.

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Discover more about Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé

Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé, or simply Antiga Sé (Old See), stands as a testament to Brazil's rich history and imperial past. Located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro's Centro district, at Rua Sete de Setembro, 14, this Catholic church served as the episcopal seat of the Archdiocese of São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro until 1976. Originally built in 1761, the church's history is intertwined with the arrival of the Portuguese Royal Family in 1808. Dom João VI designated it as the Royal Chapel, and it later became the Imperial Chapel during the reigns of Dom Pedro I and Dom Pedro II. The church was the site of significant events, including the coronations of Dom Pedro I in 1822 and Dom Pedro II in 1841, as well as royal weddings and baptisms. Princess Isabel, who signed the Golden Law that abolished slavery in Brazil, was baptized here. The church's architecture showcases a blend of styles, including Rococo, Neoclassical, and Colonial influences. The interior is particularly striking, with gilded Rococo carvings crafted by Inácio Ferreira Pinto. The main chapel's ceiling features a painting by José de Oliveira Rosa, depicting Nossa Senhora do Carmo (Our Lady of Mount Carmel) handing the scapular to Saint Simon Stock. The church also houses a museum displaying archeological findings and historical artifacts. Part of the remains of Pedro Álvares Cabral, the Portuguese navigator credited with discovering Brazil, are kept in the crypt. Today, Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Sé remains an active parish church and a significant historical landmark. Visitors can explore its beautiful interior, learn about its role in Brazilian history, and appreciate its architectural details. The church stands in front of the historic Praça XV de Novembro, near other colonial buildings such as the Paço Imperial and the Igreja da Ordem Terceira do Carmo.

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