Overview:

The Church of São João Batista, known locally as Igreja de São João Baptista, is a Catholic church located in the city of Benguela, Angola. It belongs to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Luanda and is one of the most important historic churches in the country. The church was built in the early 20th century and is also known for its beautiful architecture, featuring a large bell tower. Visitors will find the church on the Rua de Simão de Vasconcelos in the center of the city. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Angola
Prominent Features:

The Church of São João Batista in Benguela, Angola, is a prominent landmark in the city. It is one of the oldest churches in the city and is said to be the first to be built in 1667. The church ground is very large and is lined with several statues and tombs. The entrance of the church is flanked by two towers and inside, the building is decorated with several religious symbols. The church is famous for its painted stained glass windows and the architecture of the church is a typical 17th century Portuguese style. The Church of São João Batista also houses a museum that houses artifacts from the colonial period. The church is surrounded by a garden that has several species of plants and trees. Every Sunday, believers gather at this church for mass. The Church of São João Batista is definitely a must-visit for anyone visiting Benguela. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Angola.

History:

The Church of São João Batista is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Benguela in Angola. The church was established in the 16th century by missionaries who sought to expand their influence in the region. It has been considered one of the most important religious buildings in Angola since its foundation. The church was built in 1517 by the first Portuguese missionary of the region, Father João de Santarém, with the support of King João III of Portugal. It was made in the Gothic-Manueline style, with elaborate arches, columns, and vaulted ceilings. It was the first Christian temple built in Benguela. In the 19th century, the church underwent extensive reconstruction and expansion. A huge stone statue of São João was placed in front of the church in 1883, which was donated by the local population and came from Portugal. The church also has a large bell tower, measuring 52m tall. The church underwent further renovations in the 20th century, with the aim of preserving its historical significance. It was declared a National Monument by the Angolan government in 2010. Today, the Church of São João Batista still serves as a place of worship for the Catholic population in Benguela and is a major tourist attraction in the city. São João Batista is an important symbol of faith and culture in Angola, and a reminder of the country's long-standing religious traditions. Despite several renovations, it still maintains its historical character and beauty, making it a major landmark in Benguela. Visit one of the famous monuments of Angola with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Church of São João Batista in Benguela, Angola is the oldest intact church in the country. 2. Its construction was completed in 1639, making it one of the oldest buildings in Angola. 3. The church was built in the traditional Portuguese Manueline architecture style, with the tower being a prominent feature. 4. The church originally served as a chapel, and was part of a monastery belonging to Augustinian Recollects. 5. The Church of São João Batista is believed to have been originally founded by King Afonso I of Kongo. 6. Inside the church, there is a Baroque Altar, originally brought to Angola from Portugal and donated to the church in 1930. 7. The Church of São João Batista was listed as a National Monument of Angola in 1972. 8. The church is still used today, as a place of worship by the local community. One of the historical monuments of Angola, it tells the story of a bygone era