Santarém Cathedral (Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição)
Catedral Metropolitana de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
A blue-and-white Baroque church from the 18th century beside the waterfront, and Santarém's oldest landmark.
Santarém Cathedral (Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception) was begun in 1761. Its blue-and-white façade and two bell towers face the Tapajós, making it the city's most prominent historic building. Inside is a crucifix said to have been given by the 19th-century German naturalist Martius in thanks for his escape from danger on the river. The square in front of the church is the city centre, and a festival procession in honour of Our Lady takes place each December. Admission is free, so please keep quiet during Mass. It is within walking distance of the waterfront and the João Fona Cultural Centre, making it a good half-day city tour.
Opening hours
Open during the day (closed during Mass)
Nearby sights
- Santarém Waterfront (Orla)
- Centro Cultural João Fona
- Meeting of the Waters, Santarém
- Mercadão 2000
- Ponta de Pedras Beach
- Lago Verde
- Floresta Encantada
- Ilha do Amor