The São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral in Petrópolis, RJ, one of the city’s top attractions, is also one of the most famous churches in Brazil. Built in French neo-gothic style, with a beautiful rose window, the cathedral is listed as a national historic heritage by IPHAN.
Construction of the cathedral started in 1884, under the patronage of D. Pedro II, then the emperor of Brazil, and his daughter, Princess Isabel. The church would only open in 1925, when Brazil had long been a republic. In 2004, the cathedral underwent restoration sponsored by Petrobrás.
Inside the church, the Imperial Chapel holds the remains of D. Pedro II, his wife Teresa Cristina, Princess Isabel and her husband, the Count D'Eu.
Some of the Petrópolis Winter Festival concerts are held at the São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral.
