Pernambuco Museum of Sacred Art

Nestled in the heart of Olinda, Brazil, the Pernambuco Museum of Sacred Art (Museu de Arte Sacra de Pernambuco) stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of religious and cultural history that has shaped the region. This captivating museum, housed in a historic 17th-century building, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the sacred art that has been an integral part of Pernambuco's spiritual heritage.

The Historical Significance of the Building

The building that now hosts the Pernambuco Museum of Sacred Art was originally constructed in the 17th century on the Alto da Sé, the hill where Duarte Coelho founded Olinda in 1535. Initially serving as the House of the Senate Chamber of Olinda, it later became the Episcopal Palace with the arrival of the first Bishop of Pernambuco, Dom Estevão Brioso de Figueiredo, in 1676. By 1690, the building was exclusively used as the Episcopal Palace, a role it maintained for many years.

Throughout the 19th century, the building underwent several transformations, serving various purposes including a collective residence for clergy, a school, and even a military barracks during World War II. Despite these changes, it has retained its original charm, with two towers and twelve wooden balconies still gracing its façade. The building's historical significance is further highlighted by the presence of the old episcopal coat of arms and a UNESCO plaque declaring Olinda a World Heritage Site.

Exploring the Museum's Collections

The Pernambuco Museum of Sacred Art opened its doors in 1974 and has since been a beacon for those interested in religious art and history. The museum's collection is a treasure trove of intricately crafted sacred pieces, ranging from polychrome and gilded sculptures to paintings and religious artifacts. Many of these items were initially provided by the Archdiocese of Olinda and Recife, and the collection has grown to include pieces from the 16th century to contemporary times.

Visitors can explore seven thematic exhibition rooms, each offering a unique perspective on sacred art:

Thematic Rooms of the Museum

Olinda, Cultural Monument Room: This room features photographs, maps, paintings, documents, and archaeological pieces that tell the story of Olinda's rich cultural heritage.

Processional Saints Room: Here, you can find santos de roca (partially sculpted figures dressed in fabric) and other processional images, offering insight into the religious practices of the past.

Saints and Reliquaries Room: This room showcases 18th-century statues and relics, including arms-reliquaries, providing a glimpse into the religious devotion of the era.

Plaster Saints Room: Featuring 19th-century French statues, some with iron structures and polychrome finishes, this room highlights the international influences on local religious art.

Aspects of Sacred Art in Pernambuco Room: This room presents a panorama of the evolution of religious imagery in Pernambuco from the 17th to the 19th century.

The Church Altar Room: Designed to recreate the interior of a small church, this room includes an altar, images, a confessional, and various religious objects, offering a tangible connection to the region's ecclesiastical traditions.

The Artisan's Way of the Cross and Nativity Scene Room: This final room displays scenes of Christ's passion, death, and resurrection, alongside nativity scenes crafted by artisans from Pernambuco, showcasing the vibrant folk art tradition of the region.

Engaging with the Museum's Activities

The Pernambuco Museum of Sacred Art is not just a static repository of artifacts; it is a dynamic cultural hub. The museum regularly hosts courses, lectures, and exhibitions that align with the liturgical cycle and religious calendar, providing visitors with an immersive educational experience. These activities ensure that the museum remains a lively and engaging destination for both locals and tourists.

Located on Bispo Coutinho Street, the museum is easily accessible and offers a serene escape into the world of sacred art and history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the spiritual heritage of Pernambuco, the Pernambuco Museum of Sacred Art promises a memorable journey through time and faith.