Background

Museu Sacro Franciscano: A Sanctuary of Sacred Art

Discover a sanctuary of sacred art and Franciscan heritage in the heart of Rio de Janeiro's historic Centro district.

4.8

The Museu Sacro Franciscano, nestled in Rio de Janeiro's Centro district, is a captivating museum of sacred art housed within a former Franciscan convent. It showcases a rich collection of religious paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects, offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial religious devotion and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Museu Sacro Franciscano

  • Monday 9 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3 pm
  • Friday 9 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, as the museum can get crowded on weekends.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Church of the Third Order of Saint Francis of Penance for a complete historical and artistic experience.
  • Check for guided tours, which offer deeper insights into the museum's collection and the history of the Franciscan order.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Museu Sacro Franciscano is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Metro to Carioca Station. From there, it's a short walk up Rua da Carioca to the museum. The VLT (light rail) also stops nearby. A single Metro or VLT ticket costs around R$4.65.

  • Walking

    If you are in Centro, the museum is easily reachable by foot. From Cinelândia, walk along Rua da Carioca. The museum is located on a small hill; be prepared for a slight incline. Walking from Cinelândia takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. A short taxi ride from the South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema) to the Museu Sacro Franciscano will cost approximately R$30-R$40, depending on traffic. Be sure the driver turns on the meter, or agree on a fare beforehand.

Unlock the Best of Museu Sacro Franciscano

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Museu Sacro Franciscano

Located atop Santo Antônio Hill in Rio's Centro, the Museu Sacro Franciscano is a treasure trove of Brazilian sacred art. As the oldest and most complete institution of its kind in Brazil, and the first Sacred Art Museum in Latin America, it offers a journey back to the most captivating era in Rio de Janeiro's history. Housed in a former Franciscan convent, the museum displays a diverse collection of sacred art, including paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects. Each piece tells a story of faith and artistic mastery. The museum is annexed to the Church of the Third Order of Saint Francis of Penance, a colonial church considered one of the most important in Rio de Janeiro and Brazil. The church was built between 1657 and 1733, with its baroque decoration a sight to behold. The facade is divided into three sections, each with its own portal, large windows, and independent roof. Inside the church, visitors are greeted by gilded altarpieces and walls, showcasing the craftsmanship of Portuguese artists. The ceiling features a painting titled "Glorification of Saint Francis," created by Caetano da Costa Coelho between 1736 and 1741. The museum also safeguards images and vestments from the famous Procissão das Cinzas (Procession of Ashes), established in 1647, a key part of the city's religious history. The museum comprises several rooms, including the Hall of Vestments, the Hall of Litters, the Gallery of Images, and the Primitive Chapel of the Order.

Popular Experiences near Museu Sacro Franciscano

Popular Hotels near Museu Sacro Franciscano

Select Currency