Convento e Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo

The Convento e Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo is a church complex with convent buildings in Olinda, featuring a main altar with three niches including a baroque image of the patroness and statues of Saints Elias and Eliseus. The spaces combine religious architecture with decorative elements from multiple centuries.

Construction began around 1580 when Carmelites settled in Olinda, making it the oldest Carmelite convent in the Americas. Dutch forces severely damaged the complex in 1631.

The church displays wooden choir seating and several oil paintings on wood created by friars, which reflect religious art from the colonial period. These works remain central to the visual character of the interior today.

After extensive restoration work, the complex reopened to visitors in August 2012 with guided tours available through the structures. The paths through the interior are accessible and manageable to explore on foot.

The bell tower was completed in 1726 and stands on the south side with architectural elements from the Mannerist school of Vignola. This tower displays a blend of artistic traditions from different periods.

Location: Olinda

Phone: +558134292898

GPS coordinates: -8.01739,-34.84920

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:00