A place for study and beautiful church with big dimension , in middle of Funchal .It is very quiet .
Somehow we missed this for fifteen years, but worth the wait if you are interested in the history and the elaborate architecture of the Jesuit church, not that the Jesuits have been there for a long time. Easy to find near the town hall in the city centre. We were shown round by a charming and knowledgeable university student as it is now part of the university.
aA beautiful church and a peaceful sanctuary which we found by chance in a quiet square near the Municipal buildings.
Set in a square up from the cathedral this large baroque church is quite magnificent. It is covered in azuelas (traditional Portuguese tiles} of incredible quality, and gold. There is a splendour about it which contrasts with the relative simplicity of the cathedral. It has a fine modern organ and if you are there in mid to late October look out for the Madeira Organ Festival, several nights of great organ and choral music, free, held each night in a different church not necessarily in Funchal but including this churc and the cathedral, and starting at 9.30 so that you can have dinner first. `but get there early as the seats fill up completely, and certainly dress lightly for both Funchal venues as the churches become very hot.
It was a self guided tour using a little brochure. Most everything has changed from the days it was actually a College for the Jesuits. But the history was interesting, it was free and it killed about 30 minutes of time.
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This is well worth visiting and we were given a leaflet on the church when we paid the 1 Euro to go up the tower. The main chapel is enriched with beautiful Madeiran woodcarvings from around 1646. On your way up to the Tower you will see a marvellous statue of Jesus - 'Body Dead; which is apparently put in the church during Lent. There is also a large glass case with a lovely Nativity Display which we took a photo of.
The most amazing Church but not given enough publicity. Don't miss going up to the tower. Not a difficult climb with different levels to stop on. Views are amazing. Seats on the tower for a rest.
The university building hasn't long been open to the public. It is a very peaceful place. Information is well presented for a solo tour but it is also possible to have a guide. This is a very interesting historical building. here is also a small cafe and a lovely shop selling good quality gifts.It is good to attach visit to the beautiful Jesuit church next door.
A fantastic example of a Jesuit church, with amazing carvings throughout. If you want to go up the tower for some great views over the city, it's only a euro!