Saint Benedict Church and Monastery, Rio de Janeiro (must see)

Saint Benedict Church and Monastery is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most important religious and artistic landmarks, rising above the city centre on Saint Benedict Hill. Its history began in 1590, when the land was donated to the Benedictine monks. Construction of the present complex started in 1633 and was completed in 1671, resulting in a refined example of Portuguese colonial architecture with strong Mannerist influences. The façade is marked by three entrance archways beneath a triangular gable, flanked by two towers topped with pyramidal spires. Passing through the entrance, visitors arrive at a tiled porch fitted with 19th-century iron gates.

While the exterior is relatively restrained, the interior is the church’s most famous feature. Almost every square inch of the walls and ceilings is covered in intricate wood carvings coated in 22-carat gold leaf. This massive decorative program took nearly a century to complete, spanning the years from 1668 to 1743. Look up to see a series of paintings depicting the life of Saint Benedict, framed by heavy, gold-covered scrollwork.

While admiring the church’s golden ornamentation, walk down the central aisle toward the far end of the nave. There, the High Altar displays the throne for the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, positioned at the very top of the altar structure. Flanking the throne are statues of Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica, his sister. Facing the altar, move into the right-hand side chapel, known as the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. It features some of the most delicate Rococo carvings in the church, lighter and more floral in character than the heavier Baroque decoration of the main nave. The silverwork here is particularly exquisite.

Beyond its artistic value, the monastery played a major role in education and urban development and remains active today. Visitors who attend the traditional Sunday 10:00 a.m. Mass can still hear Gregorian chant accompanied by organ music.