Paróquia São João Maria Vianney, Catholic church in Água Branca district, São Paulo, Brazil.
The Paróquia São João Maria Vianney sits in Praça Cornélia square with Baroque architectural details designed by Alexandre Albuquerque. Inside, a restored pipe organ roughly 75 years old fills the space with music during services.
Construction started in 1927 and finished in 1931, with the official opening occurring in 1932. The design was inspired by a trip Archbishop Dom Duarte Leopoldo e Silva made to France, which influenced the building's character.
This church became a gathering place for the Italian community that settled in the neighborhood. The weekly craft fair held in Praça Cornélia square reflects how the space continues to serve local residents beyond religious functions.
Sunday morning masses happen regularly, and the organ plays during services. The church functions as an active community hub, so visiting hours may vary depending on events and activities scheduled throughout the week.
The bells ring before Sunday services and have done so for roughly 80 years, though the church once received a fine for breaking municipal noise rules. This reflects an interesting tension between religious tradition and city regulations in the neighborhood.
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