Church of Saint Michael Paulista, Catholic chapel in São Miguel Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
The Church of Saint Michael Paulista is a whitewashed chapel in São Miguel Paulista built with rammed earth walls and wooden beams. The simple nave layout includes a covered porch that extends along one side of the structure.
The building was first constructed in 1580 and rebuilt in 1622 following damage or wear. It originally functioned as a Jesuit missionary center where indigenous Guaianás people received religious instruction.
The chapel reflects Portuguese colonial traditions through its simple interior fittings made from turned jacaranda wood and mural paintings hidden behind the altar. Visitors can see how religious spaces were arranged during the early colonial period.
Access to the chapel is limited to specific hours and can hold around 100 people at a time. The entrance is located near São Miguel Paulista train station, making it easy to reach by public transport.
Excavations conducted inside the chapel uncovered ancient objects and human remains dating to the early colonial period. These discoveries provide rare insights into the daily life of the first inhabitants who lived at this location.
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