Church of Our Lady of Carmo, Colonial church in Pirenópolis, Brazil

The Church of Our Lady of Carmo is an 18th-century Catholic church on Largo do Carmo, between the Historic Center and the Carmo neighborhood of Pirenópolis. Its simple facade has two bell towers set at the level of the nave roof. Walls of adobe and rammed earth (taipa de pilão) use local cedar and aroeira wood, and stone from nearby quarries frames the rear portals. Inside are two rococo side altars and a main altar with baroque and neoclassical remains.

Luciano Nunes Teixeira and his son-in-law, sergeant-major Antônio Rodrigues Frota, had the church built between 1750 and 1754 with enslaved labour, using adobe and rammed earth. It was the only 18th-century church on the right bank of the Rio das Almas. Local legend says its construction sparked a rivalry with sergeant-major Antônio José de Campos, who then built the Bonfim church. In 1935 the facade was remodelled in neoclassical style and in 1976 the original was restored.

This building serves as a focal point for local religious practice and holds art pieces that reflect different periods of community worship. Within its walls stand altars originally from another demolished church, now integrated into this space.

This building lies within walking distance of central Pirenópolis and welcomes visitors interested in exploring its architecture and artwork. Religious services take place regularly here, so checking opening hours and service times before your visit ensures the best experience.

The church stands on the lower right bank of the Rio das Almas, the only 18th-century church built on that side of the river, in the Largo do Carmo between the Historic Center and the Carmo neighborhood. Local legend holds that its construction sparked a rivalry between two sergeant-majors, Antônio Rodrigues Frota and Antônio José de Campos, prompting the latter to build the Church of Bonfim.