Overview:

Located in the city of Huíla in Angola, the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo - Huíla is a 17th century Baroque cathedral built on the foundations of an older church from 1597. It stands as one of the most imposing religious monuments of the Angolan highlands and has been listed as a monument of historic interest since 1938. Built from the terrain up, the church has a large dome, two bell towers, twelve granite columns, and a carved-stone facade. The immense beauty of its intricate exterior and refined interior design, adorned with sculptures and tiles, have made it a place of pilgrimage for believers in the region. Of particular interest is the altarpiece from the 17th century, which features sculptures from the Bom Jesus church in Portugal, as well as religious art pieces added over the years. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo - Huíla is a living example of the influence of the Portuguese Crown on the religious and cultural landscape of Angola. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Angola
Prominent Features:

1. One of the most famous landmarks in Huíla, Angola, is the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo. 2. Originally built in the 17th century, the building has retained its classic Portuguese-colonial style architecture. 3. The church is located in the historical area of Huíla, close to the old school and convent. 4. It is a beautiful two-storey brick building with a sweeping staircase and ornate windows and balconies. 5. The church's colorful façade has been recently restored, adding to its charm. 6. Inside, visitors can find a variety of interesting details, including stunning stained glass windows, carved wooden furnishings and statues. 7. Nossa Senhora do Carmo is also home to a number of magnificent religious paintings. 8. The church is open daily for visitors to explore and take in its rich history. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Angola.

History:

The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is located in Huíla Province, Angola, and belongs to the Carmelite Fathers. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and the parish was founded by them in 1982. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo was founded to serve as a place of worship for the Catholic population in Huíla, which had previously been sparsely served by the local churches. The church was built by the Carmelite Fathers, who wanted to provide an opportunity for their Catholic brothers and sisters in Huíla to practice the faith. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is a simple, one-story structure comprised of a central nave flanked by two side aisles. The building is covered by a pyramidal metal roof and features decorative elements such as stained glass windows and ceramic tiles. The church also includes a choir and two small bell towers. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is used for a variety of religious and social events, such as Mass, Confirmation, Baptism, as well as devotions and processions to local saints. The church also provides hospitality and assistance to the needy and homeless of the Huíla region. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is an important symbol for the local community, and the Carmelite Fathers take pride in having been able to bring their Catholic faith to the people of Huíla. Although the church has faced some difficult times due to civil unrest in the region, it still stands as a testament to the faith and devotion of the locals and the Carmelite Fathers who have kept it running. Visit one of the famous monuments of Angola with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo in Huíla, Angola is the oldest survivingchurch in the country. It was built in 1773 and remains a popular pilgrimage site for those wishing to pay their respects to Our Lady of Carmo. 2. This church is also known for its impressive architecture, with four story tall towers located on each side of the building. The interior is also decorated with gold-accented frescos, statues, and various religious symbols. 3. The church’s founder, Frei Amaro Bento, was an Augustinian monk who lived in the 16th century. After his death, the church was built in his honor. 4. In 2008, Pope Benedict XVI visited the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo and planted a tree in the church garden in remembrance of Frei Amaro Bento. 5. Every year, Huíla celebrates Festa Monástica de Nossa Senhora de Carmo in honor of Frei Amaro Bento and the church he founded. The festival consists of religious services, prayer, singing, and traditional dances. One of the historical monuments of Angola, it tells the story of a bygone era