The Candelaria Church or in full name The Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria, is one of the most beautiful churches in Brazil, located in the center of Rio de Janeiro. Hundreds of tourists and locals visit it every day.
How the church got its name has never been officially determined. Namely, the legend says that at the beginning of the 17th century, a storm almost sank a Spanish ship called Candelaria. The ship's captains, Martins Palma and Lenor Goncalves, promised that if they survived on land, they would build a monument in honor of the patron saint of Lady Candelaria. After surviving the storm, they fulfilled their promise and built a small chapel in Rio (1609).
However, historians believe that this is not a true version because the church is mentioned only in 1710. In the 18th century, Sergeant Francisco Joao Roscio drew up plans to expand the church, in the shape of a Latin cross. The works started in 1775. Although the church was not completed, it was opened to the public in 1811. Though the church at the time had only one nave and altars, they were the work of the famous sculptor Mestre Valentim. He was a great artist of his time and unfortunately his works were replaced in later church restorations, and they represented a real treasure and cultural heritage of Brazil.
Later, much importance was given to the frescoes painted inside the church. During the 19th century, the final shape of the church, which is still present today, was formed, with three naves, while only the outer facade of the old design remained.
The problems with the construction were mostly caused by the dome, on the installation of which several architects were engaged. The dome of the Candelaria Church has long been the tallest building in the city. In the 19th century, Renaissance details began to emerge inside the church. The floors are made of marble and the frescoes were painted by Brazilian artist Joao Zeferino da Costa. In 1901, a beautiful brass door was installed at the entrance to the church, the work of the Portuguese artist Teixeir Lopes.
Unfortunately, not only beautiful things are connected to the Candelaria Curch and the square in general. On July 23, 1993, during the night, several men killed a group of homeless people, including 6 minors. Several of the killers were from the police. The killers were tried, but unfortunately only a small number of them were sentenced to prison. This event is known as the Candelaria Massacre.
The church is really beautiful, as is the square itself, which we advise you to visit.
Working hours of the Candelaria Church
Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mass:
Monday to Friday, at 12:15 p.m.
Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
