Convent and Church of Saint Antony

The Church and Convent of Saint Antony forms an architectural complex featuring a main church, a courtyard with a monumental cross, and convent buildings positioned on the northern side. The ensemble sits near the Iguape estuary of the Paraguaçu River and displays Baroque architectural characteristics.

Construction of the complex began in 1658, with the church consecrated in 1660 and the entire ensemble completed around 1686. These dates mark the early establishment of Baroque architecture in South America during the colonial period.

The complex displays early Brazilian Baroque style that became a model for churches throughout northeastern Brazil. This architectural approach developed here before it reached Portugal, making the site an important point of origin for this design tradition.

The site sits by the Iguape estuary of the Paraguaçu River, so river transport is typically required to reach it. Plan your visit during drier months when water access is less challenging.

By 1857 the convent population had shrunk to just five residents, and the complex was abandoned in the early 1900s. Most interior furnishings were removed, yet the external structures survived this period of neglect.

Location: Cachoeira

Inception: 1700s

Architectural style: baroque architecture

Address: Vila de São Francisco de Iguape, às margens do rio Paraguassú, distrito de Iguape.

GPS coordinates: -12.74308,-38.87349

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07