Church of Our Lady on Monte Serrat, Religious sanctuary on Monte Serrat hill, Santos, Brazil.
Church of Our Lady on Monte Serrat is a stone structure with Portuguese colonial architecture sitting at the summit of a hill with white walls and balanced proportions. Inside, you find religious artworks and altars that reflect the craftsmanship of the colonial period.
The religious building was founded in 1599 and ranks among the early settlements established by Portuguese colonists in the region. Over centuries it weathered changes and grew into an important city landmark.
The church serves as a living center of Catholic worship where locals gather for regular services and spiritual observance. It represents the Portuguese religious traditions that shaped this region for centuries.
You can reach the hilltop easily by taking the funicular railway that runs daily and goes directly to the church entrance. There are footpaths around the building and viewpoints that help you get your bearings.
The stairway leading to the church features bronze reliefs depicting religious scenes that were added in the 1940s. These handcrafted works shape the appearance of the ascent today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.