Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Dores (Capelinha)
Imagine stepping back in time to the early 1800s, when the Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Dores, affectionately known as the 'Capelinha', stood as a testament to Paraty's aristocratic past. This charming white church, perched on Rua Fresca, offers a serene escape with its intricate woodwork and a peaceful cemetery courtyard. On Saturday afternoons, you can explore its hallowed halls, but any day of the week, the façade and the breathtaking sea view are worth a visit. As you wander through the narrow streets of Paraty, the 'Capelinha' beckons with its historical significance and architectural beauty. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a tranquil spot to reflect, this cultural landmark promises a unique glimpse into the past.
Facing the bay on Rua Fresca, this small, simple white church is known to locals as the 'Capelinha', the little chapel. It was built in 1800 on the initiative of the women of Paraty's aristocracy, and during the Empire it was the church of the town's elite. Its tower is topped by a weathercock showing the wind direction, like the one on Santa Rita. Inside, the altars are dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, Our Lady of Piety and Senhor Bom Jesus. Look out for the lace-like carved woodwork on the interior balconies and the columbarium-style cemetery around the inner courtyard. The church is usually closed and opens to visitors only on Saturday afternoons, when entry is free. The rest of the week, it's still worth a short stop for the façade and the sea view, just a few steps from the Casa do Príncipe.
History
The Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Dores was built in 1800 at the initiative of the ladies of Paraty's high society, which is why it's sometimes called "the women's church". During the Brazilian Empire it was the church attended by the town's aristocracy.
It was renovated in 1901, when the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Sorrows was founded, made up only of women. The image of Our Lady of Piety that once stood on one of its altars is now kept at the Museu de Arte Sacra in the Igreja de Santa Rita. The church is a protected national heritage site, listed by IPHAN in 1962.
Fun Facts
- It was built in 1800 at the initiative of a group of aristocratic women, and its brotherhood founded in 1901 admitted only women.
- Like Santa Rita, its tower is topped by a weathercock that shows the wind direction.
- The image of Our Lady of Piety from one of its altars is now in Paraty's Museu de Arte Sacra.
- Inside, a columbarium-style cemetery surrounds the inner courtyard.
Guide Tips
- Want to see inside? Plan for a Saturday afternoon (13:30–18:00), the only time it opens.
- Any other day, enjoy the façade and the bay view from Rua Fresca.
Opening Hours
Sat: 13:30 - 18:00, Sun-Fri: Closed