Igreja de São João Evangelista

Igreja de São João Evangelista is a Mannerist church featuring a Latin cross layout with a single nave throughout its interior space. The walls and ceilings display carved and gilded details alongside blue-and-white ceramic tiles dating from the 1600s.

Work on the structure started in 1629 with Jesuit oversight, and the main building was finished by 1647. Decoration and ornamental work continued into the 1700s as craftsmen added the final details.

The church displays Jesuit symbolism through the letters IHS featured in ceiling paintings and decorative elements throughout the space. Visitors can observe how the eight side chapels and plant-decorated vaults express the spiritual ideals of the order that built this place.

The structure is part of a Jesuit College complex that now houses the University of Madeira and the Catholic University. The location sits within the São Pedro district and is easily accessible for visitors to walk through and view.

A large organ built by master organ builder Dinarte Machado was installed in 2008 and opened with a performance by conductor Ton Koopman. This addition brought modern musical presence to the centuries-old space.

Location: São Pedro

Inception: 1578

Architectural style: Mannerist architecture

Part of: Complexo do Colégio dos Jesuítas do Funchal

Website: http://diocesedofunchal.com

GPS coordinates: 32.64987,-16.90902

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:23