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Sao Francisco da Penitencia Church (Igreja Sao Francisco da Penitencia)
Church

Sao Francisco da Penitencia Church (Igreja Sao Francisco da Penitencia)

Brazil
4.5
(5,000 reviews)
5
Tours Available
Free (donations welcome)
Adult Entry
1 hour
Recommended Duration
March-May, September-November
Best Time

Overview

Igreja de São Francisco da Penitência is a stunning Baroque church located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. Its rich history and intricate architecture make it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

This church is significant for its historical importance and artistic value, featuring works by renowned artists and serving as a key religious and cultural landmark in Rio de Janeiro.

Historical Architectural

Location

Address

Rua da Carioca 5, Centro, Rio de Janeiro

Neighborhood: Centro

Coordinates

-22.906800, -43.177100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults
Free (donations welcome)
Children
Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
30 minutes
Recommended
1 hour
Full Experience
2 hours

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Pleasant

  • • Beautiful gardens
  • • Festive decorations

summer

Hot and humid

  • • Extended visiting hours
  • • Outdoor events

autumn

Pleasant

  • • Fall foliage
  • • Cultural exhibitions

winter

Cooler and rainier

  • • Holiday decorations
  • • Indoor exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Dress modestly
  • Respect quiet hours
  • Check service times

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable shoes Water bottle Camera

recommended

Sunhat Sunscreen Guidebook

seasonal

Umbrella Jacket

not allowed

Loud clothing Large backpacks

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: None

  • • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas

Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Typical Costs

entry Free (donations welcome)
guided tour $10-$20
donation $5-$10

Dress Code

Modest clothing, Comfortable shoes, Closed-toe shoes, Shorts, Sleeveless tops, Revealing clothing

Booking Tips

  • • Not required, but recommended for guided tours
  • • Official website or local tour operators
  • • Varies by tour operator
  • • Available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Rio de Janeiro Tourist App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Event calendar, Audio guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport

Distance: 20 km

Travel Time: 30-45 minutes

Taxi
$30-$40 30-45 minutes
Bus
$5-$10 60-90 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 2-5 km

Metro
$1.50 10-15 minutes
Bus
$1 15-20 minutes
Taxi
$5-$10 10-15 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historical significance and beautiful architecture

Historical Significance: Built in the 18th century, it has witnessed many historical events

Insider Tips

  • Best time for photos is early morning
  • Local cafes offer traditional Brazilian pastries

Local Recommendations

  • • Visit the nearby National Library
  • • Try local pastries at the nearby cafes

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá
thank_you Obrigado/Obrigada
where_is Onde está
how_much Quanto custa
beautiful Bonito/Bonita
ticket Ingresso

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main altar

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture the intricate details

Result: Stunning Baroque architecture

#BaroqueArt #RioDeJaneiro #ChurchArchitecture

Exterior facade

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Beautiful play of light and shadows

#Architecture #TravelBrazil #HistoricalLandmark

Photography Rules

allowed areas Exterior, Interior (except during services)
prohibited areas Altar area during services
flash photography Not allowed during services
commercial photography Permit required
drone policy Prohibited
tripod policy Allowed with permission
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Rio de Janeiro Cathedral

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 minutes

Type: Cathedral

National Library of Brazil

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 minutes

Type: Library

Tijuca National Park

Distance: 10 km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Nature Park

Reviews

4.5

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Visit early to avoid crowds"
  • "Check for special events"
  • "Comfortable shoes recommended"

Contact Information

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Quick Info

Available Tours

5

Rating

4.5 / 5.0

Reviews

5,000

Adult Entry

Free (donations welcome)

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