Church of the Holy Cross of the Military
Church of the Holy Cross of the Military, Colonial religious building in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Description
The Church of the Holy Cross of the Military stands in Rio de Janeiro's Centro district with a striking front featuring four marble statues of the evangelists. The building mixes Ionic and Corinthian columns in its design, showing how European architectural styles were adapted for colonial Brazil.
History
Construction took place between 1780 and 1811 under the design of Portuguese military engineer José Custódio de Sá e Faria, replacing an older chapel from 1628. The extended building period reflects how important this structure was to the military community of the time.
Culture
The Brotherhood of the Holy Cross of the Military continues to gather here for worship and community events. This group shaped how Portuguese religious traditions took root in Rio and remain visible in the daily life of the neighborhood.
Practical
The building is easily accessible in central Rio de Janeiro, surrounded by other heritage sites that you can explore in the same area. Visitors can attend regular religious services or arrange to see the interior and its architectural details.
Did you know?
The front facade draws inspiration from Rome's Church of Gesù but was modified to suit Brazil's tropical climate and colonial context. This blend of Italian design adapted for local conditions makes it a distinctive example of how European architecture was transformed in the New World.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Rio de Janeiro).
Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil
172 m
Paço Imperial
224 m
Praça XV de Novembro
224 m
Rio de Janeiro Stock Exchange
161 m
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte do Carmo
148 m
Teles’ House and Arch
132 m
Church of the Order Terceira do Carmo
109 m
Convent of Mount Carmel
136 m
Casa França-Brasil
220 m
Nau Capitânia
228 m
Church of Our Lady of Lapa dos Mercadores
41 m
Chafariz do Mestre Valentim
197 m
Prédio da CONAB
212 m
Aquarela 'Vista Interior da Praça do Commercio'
216 m
Chafariz da Pira do Povo
221 m
Vênus Reclinada
62 m
Barão de Mauá na Rua da Candelária
162 m
Chafariz Oferenda ou Mulher com Ânfora
215 m
Oratório de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Boa Esperança
157 m
Cais do Chafariz da Praça XV de Novembro
204 m
Terra
240 m
Alfândega do Rio de Janeiro
220 m
Grandjean de Montiny
184 m
Encontro, do Centro
208 m
Kintetic, a Pira do Povo
217 m
General Osório da Praça XV
160 m
Piso de Constaneira do Beco das Cancelas
136 m
Lampadário Suspenso do Corredor Cultural
132 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes