Cathedral of Nossa Senhora do Pilar Ouro Preto, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
The Main Church of Our Lady of the Pillar is considered the richest church of Minas Gerais, thanks to the refinement of its architecture and decoration. It was built in 1696 and expanded in 1712, in the city of Ouro Preto.
The monument was listed as heritage by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (Iphan).
The Main Church architecture follows the traditional Baroque style, formed by the nave, which is the body of the Church, and the chancel. It is estimated that the decoration of these two structures used 400 Kg of gold and silver powder, which resulted in a rich decor, attracting people of all faiths.
There are hundreds of carved angels spread around the church. The hoist of the chancel of the Main Church, portrait of the Virgin of the Pillar surrounded by angels and cherubs, is considered a masterpiece of Baroque reference. Its author is the Portuguese sculptor and woodcarver Francisco Xavier de Brito.
The Museum of Sacred Art, in the basement of the rectory, has a collection of 18th century religious works and can also be visited.
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