at a glance

rio's central district is home to the most famous cathedrals and churches in the city -  the conical shaped modern cathedral is a major local landmark and world famous - yet, not far from it one can find several other temples of worship truly worth discovering.

the monastery of são bento is uniquely decorated with carved woods of amazing intricacy, while the newly restored são francisco da penitência's interiors are completely painted in gold.

almost invisible from the street where it is located, one of our favorite churches in rio is the tiny and especially endearing nossa senhora de lapa dos mercadores - graciously decorated in light colors and tucked away on rua do ouvidor 35.