Overview:

The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo (Our Lady of Carmo) is a 19th century-era church located in the city of Benguela, Angola. It was built by the Portuguese in the late 19th century (1846-1857) and is one of the oldest churches in the country. The church is part of the historical center of Benguela and is classified as a National Heritage Monument. The church features an eclectic mix of architecture, taking elements of both the Baroque and Neoclassic styles. Inside, the church has intricately decorated pillars and intricate ceiling designs. It is known for its large, round stained glass window depicting the life of Jesus up to his ascension into heaven. In front of the church lies a large central courtyard, enclosed by walls and gates, and surrounded by a variety of 18th and 19th century colonial buildings. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Angola
Prominent Features:

- Constructed in 1772, this Baroque style church is one of the most iconic buildings in Benguela, Angola. - The church is famous for its red and white striped façade, and its bell tower standing 40 meters tall. - Inside the church is an intricately decorated interior, featuring artwork from the 17th century. - Nossa Senhora do Carmo is a popular tourist attraction, and is often visited by locals to venerate their patron saint. - The church also holds several festivals celebrating traditional Angolan and African culture. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Angola.

History:

The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo in Benguela, Angola is a historic Roman Catholic church. The church was built in the late 18th century as part of a larger effort to spread the Catholic faith to Angola. The church was erected in 1792 for the Carmelite brothers of the Order of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. It has been the center of religious life in Benguela for nearly 200 years. In 1922, it was declared a national Historic Monument and has been maintained as such ever since. In the 19th century, the church underwent several restorations. In 1875, the walls and interior of the church were repainted, and in 1891 the roof was replaced. During the Angola War of Independence, the church sustained serious damage. In 1962, the building was restored and reopened. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is still an important site of local religious devotion and remains quite popular among the local population. Mass is held regularly at the church, and it is used for weddings and other special events. In addition, the church is decorative examples of the traditional Baroque and Rococo styles from the late 18th century, and is a major tourist attraction in Benguela. Today, the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is an important symbol of the Catholic faith in Angola. Its enduring beauty and spiritual significance makes it an integral part of the cultural and religious landscape in Benguela. Sources: # https://www.sacred-destinations.com/angola/benguela-igreja-nossa-senhora-do-carmo # http://www.eroaangola.net/4/index.html # http://www.angolanhistory.net/momentos-historicos/angola-idade-moderna/cesario-verde/igreja-nossa-senhora-do-carmo-benguela.aspx Visit one of the famous monuments of Angola with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is the oldest church in Benguela, Angola, dating back to the 17th century. 2. It is located in the historic center of Benguela and is an example of colonial-era Portuguese architecture. 3. The church features elaborate baroque decorations, including sculptures, paintings, and tiles. 4. It has been declared a national monument by the Angolan government. 5. The church is also home to the Benguela Historical Archive, which contains documents and artifacts related to the city’s colonial past. 6. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo holds a number of religious festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival of Our Lady of Carmo and the Festival of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 7. The church is popular with tourists and locals alike, and the square in front of it is a popular gathering place for people from all walks of life. One of the historical monuments of Angola, it tells the story of a bygone era