For 15 years, it was open only on weekdays. But starting September 26, the Church of São Francisco da Penitência will once again be open on Saturdays as well. Known as the “golden church, ” this historic building is located in downtown Rio de Janeiro and attracts not only the faithful but also locals and tourists who want to see the church’s stunning interior decoration up close.
The reopening on Saturdays takes place during Rio Art Week and is permanent
The reopening of the Church of São Francisco da Penitência is taking place during Rio Art Week, which is bringing the city center to life with various cultural attractions.
Morro de Santo Antônio, for example, which provides access to the church, is hosting the artwork “A Onça” by Fefê Talavera through Sunday (the 27th).
In addition, this reopening is part of the new administration of the Venerable Third Order of Penance, which has also carried out renovations at the Franciscan Sacred Museum and improved access to the Convent of Saint Anthony.
The change does not yet include guided tours on weekends, but visitors can tour the Convent, the Church, the Museum, and the chapels daily from Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets start at R$ 15 (half-price).
The Church of São Francisco da Penitência already has two Masses scheduled for October
One of the most important churches in the city and the country, the Church of São Francisco da Penitência is one of the finest examples of Brazilian Baroque architecture. It’s no wonder it’s known as the “Golden Church.”
This is because its interior is entirely covered in gilded woodwork—from the altar to the walls—and features exuberant sculptures. The decoration continues with the painting on the wooden ceiling, which depicts the “Glorification of Saint Francis,” created by the Portuguese painter Caetano da Costa Coelho.
He was also responsible for gilding the wood carvings at the São Bento Monastery in Rio de Janeiro in 1742.
And for those who wish to attend Mass at the Church of São Francisco da Penitênciaover the weekend, there are already two services scheduled for October.
On October 3, at 6:00 p.m., a Solemn Mass will be celebrated in honor of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi. It will be presided over by Bishop Roque Costa Souza, Moderator of the Archdiocese of Rio.
On October 4, at 12 p.m., a Solemn Mass in honor of St. Francis of Assisi will be celebrated by Bishop Emeritus Jeremias Antônio de Jesus of Guanhães.
Church of São Francisco da Penitência
📍Largo da Carioca, 5 – Downtown
📅Monday through Saturday
🕛9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💵R$ 30 (full price) and R$ 15 (half-price)
