History of the Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade in Ilhéus

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The Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade: a neo-Gothic heritage site and religious symbol of Ilhéus (BA)

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade in Ilhéus (Bahia) is a prime example of the Neo-Gothic style in the cocoa-growing region.

It was built between 1927 and 1929 based on plans commissioned from France and adapted by Salomão da Silveira, and was consecrated on 31 August 1929.

Convento e Igreja Nossa Senhora da Piedade em Ilhéus (BA) — Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade in Ilhéus (BA)

Interior do Convento e Igreja Nossa Senhora da Piedade em Ilhéus (BA) — Interior of the Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade in Ilhéus (BA)

History

História do Convento e Igreja Nossa Senhora da Piedade em Ilhéus (BA)

In 1916, the first Bishop of Ilhéus, Dom Manuel de Paiva, invited Mother Maria Thaís Paillart to found a girls’ school, which led to the establishment of the Nossa Senhora da Piedade Institute.

In 1927, following the demolition of the old Church of São Sebastião and discussions regarding the new site for the church, construction of the present church began.

The plant, ordered from France by Mother Thaís, was adapted locally by Salomão da Silveira.

The building was completed in 1929 and consecrated on 31 August of that year. Community fundraising campaigns and regional support made the construction possible.

Artistic and religious features

Style: Neo-Gothic with French influences in the floor plan.
High altar: houses the statue of Our Lady of Mercy, depicting Mary holding the body of Christ.
Stained-glass windows: a series depicting the Seven Sorrows of Mary, bringing a splash of colour to the interior.

Social and cultural role

Linked to the Nossa Senhora da Piedade Institute, the chapel has supported the institution’s educational and social work since 1916.

Over the decades, it has been the venue for masses, baptisms, weddings and collective memory, and is regarded as a significant part of the built heritage of Ilhéus and Bahia.

Practical information

Before visiting, please check the Mass times, addresses and official contact details with the Institute/Parish.

Visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade and admire its Neo-Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows and high altar. For bookings and opening hours, please contact the Institute or the local parish.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 10/04/2026 · Updated on 21/05/2026