Santo Antônio Convent, Rio de Janeiro

The Convent of Santo Antonio is a Catholic monastery that belongs to the Franciscan Province of the Immaculate Conception of Brazil. It is situated on top of Santo Antônio Hill, overlooking the Largo da Carioca square in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. This convent, along with the nearby Church of the Third Order of São Francisco da Penitência, constitutes one of the oldest and most significant colonial establishments still standing in the city.

Inside the church, you'll find a simple and traditional design. It has a rectangular shape and features a single nave. The main chapel and side altars are adorned with gilded woodwork that dates back to the period between 1716 and 1719. This woodwork exhibits a late Baroque style that is more characteristic of the 17th century than the 18th century.

The history of the Convent of Saint Anthony can be traced back to 1592 when the first Franciscans arrived in Rio de Janeiro. One of its notable features is its catacombs, where the remains of several members of the Imperial Family are laid to rest.