Overview:

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça in Huambo In Angola is a landmark in this city of Huambo. This imposing edifice of the late 18th century is an example of Portuguese Baroque influence in African architecture. It was designed in the typical baroque style with a single nave and a dome at the top. The interior is decorated with brightly colored tiles, paintings and sculptures which are a testament to the richness of the Portuguese art. The church is also renowned for its stunning view of the surrounding area. This piece of architecture is definitely a unique landmark in Huambo and a must-see for any tourist to this city. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Angola
Prominent Features:

Nossa Senhora da Graça church is a historic church located in Huambo, Angola. It was constructed from 1653-1655 and is the second oldest existing European style church in Angola. The church is renowned for its Baroque architecture and for being the home of the oldest Portuguese-language documents in the country. The church has a prominent tower with a bell and serves as a testament to the influence of the Order of Friars Minor on the city of Huambo. The church consists of two levels, a lower level used as a chapel and an upper level used for religious services. The building also has a vaulted ceiling, painted in an intricate design. On the side of the church, there is an adjacent sacristy, which was built in the early 19th century and still contains several historic items. The façade of the church is decorated with statues of saints and angels, as well as a crucifix and the symbols of the Order of Friars Minor. Inside, there is a large gilded altarpiece with scenes from the Crucifixion and other religious scenes from the Bible. There are also several other antiques in the church, among them a painting of Nossa Senhora da Graça, made in the late 18th century. The most remarkable feature of the church is however the particular musical instrument known as the "Marimba" which is played every Sunday. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Angola.

History:

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça is a Catholic church located in Huambo, the capital of the Angolan province of Huambo. The church was established in the Colonial period sometime in the mid-19th century. The original church was a small, simple structure made out of clay brick and adobe. It was equipped with a bell and several wooden benches. In the early days, it was visited by many members of the colonial elite, as well as the local population who came to pray. In 1948, the church was destroyed in a devastating fire that consumed the entire neighborhood. The people of Huambo set about rebuilding it, and the current structure is a much larger and modernized version of the original. It is built out of stone and brick and has multiple stained-glass windows to let in more natural light. The bell tower is a prominent landmark in the city. The church is a major site of pilgrimage, appealing to Catholics from all over Angola. Each year, thousands of Angolans from different parts of the country come to the church to pray, celebrate Mass, and take part in the festivities. During the Easter season, the church is especially packed, as people come to honor the Resurrection of Christ. The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça is an important part of Huambo’s history, culture, and identity, and stands as a testament to the faith and resilience of the Angolan people in the face of adversity. Visit one of the famous monuments of Angola with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça is an important Roman Catholic church located in the city of Huambo, Angola. 2. The church was built by Jesuits in the early 18th century, around 1720, making it one of the oldest churches in the country. 3. The church features elegant, Portuguese-style architecture and is adorned with several works of art and sculptures. 4. The parish also includes the Church of Santo Antonio, another church built by the Jesuits in the same period. 5. The Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça was heavily damaged during the Angolan Civil War, but was eventually restored to its original condition. 6. It is also known as the “Gold Church” because of its intricate golden interior and exterior. 7. The church is a popular tourist attraction in Huambo and is frequented by many who wish to explore the incredible architecture and art of the church. One of the historical monuments of Angola, it tells the story of a bygone era