Mission Museum

The Mission Museum displays religious artifacts and sculptures within a glass-walled pavilion built from materials salvaged from the original mission ruins. The collection holds works created during the Jesuit missionary work in this region.

The mission station was founded in the 17th century by Jesuits to teach and convert the Guarani population. The museum building itself was created in 1937 as part of the first preservation efforts by the national heritage authority.

The collection displays statues and objects that reflect the encounters between Jesuit missionaries and the Guarani people during colonial times.

The museum stands near the Church of São Miguel Arcanjo ruins, so visitors can explore architectural and religious artifacts in one location. The glass-walled pavilion protects the displays from the elements while keeping the ruin and museum closely connected.

A tornado in 2016 damaged the building and destroyed 83 Jesuit statues, triggering extensive restoration of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The reconstruction efforts show how conservators reassembled broken artworks using detailed documentation and modern techniques.

Location: São Miguel das Missões

GPS coordinates: -28.54651,-54.55601

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:07