Capela do Pilar, Colonial church in Ribeirão Pires, Brazil.
Capela do Pilar is a colonial-era church building in Ribeirão Pires featuring white walls and a single bell tower. The structure displays traditional Portuguese colonial architecture with characteristic design elements from that period.
The building was founded in 1714 by bandeirante Antonio Corrêa de Lemos following his recovery from illness. The bell tower was added in 1809 by Captain João Franco da Rocha, making this one of the oldest surviving colonial churches in the region.
The church continues to serve Catholic congregations and remains a gathering place for religious observances in the Pilar district. It bridges everyday community worship with its historical importance as a neighborhood landmark.
Access to the site is arranged through the local parish office, which can provide information about the building and organize visits. It is best to contact the parish in advance to confirm access and learn about current visiting conditions.
The bell tower represents one of the few remaining original components from the early period of this colonial structure. This architectural element offers a glimpse into how such buildings looked during the early development of São Paulo.
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