Home » Bahia Travel Guide » Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos — History, architecture and religious art

The Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos, situated in the historic centre of Salvador, is one of the finest examples of Brazilian colonial Baroque architecture.

The Brotherhood dates back to the 16th century (c. 1580) and, from the early 18th century onwards, began work on its own headquarters in Terreiro de Jesus. The current temple is the result of several phases of construction, reconstruction and extension carried out between the late 18th century and the 19th century.

Architecture and interior design

With its richly ornamented façade and elaborate interior, the church is notable for its gilded woodcarvings and Rococo-influenced features, which are characteristic of 18th-century religious architecture in Salvador. The altarpiece is monumental in scale, with ornate capitals and large gilded figures, lending the composition a sense of grandeur.

Works of religious art

The collection includes statues on the high altar, such as Saint Peter in papal robes, Saint Paul and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception — the chapel’s patron saint. On the side altars are statues of Saint Lucy, Saint Amaro, Saint Eloi and Our Lady of the Gate of Heaven. Most of the pieces date from the second half of the 18th century and are of high artistic quality and great visual impact.

Origins and historical development

The Brotherhood of São Pedro dos Clérigos was established during the colonial period, initially associated with an altar in Salvador Cathedral.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the brotherhood reorganised itself and expanded its remit — bringing together its members, providing training and mutual support — acquiring land and erecting its chapel in the vicinity of the Archbishop’s Palace. The original chapel was destroyed by a landslide in the late 18th century; subsequent building work gave rise to the building we know today.

The present-day temple

The present building is the result of successive alterations carried out during various construction phases. The renovations and extensions carried out between the late 18th century and the 19th century explain the variations in the dates given by various historical sources.

The combination of altarpieces, gilded woodcarvings and sculptures lends the church great expressiveness and cultural significance within Salvador’s architectural landscape.

Photos – Sacred Art Architecture of the Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos

Bahia.ws is the largest tourist guide for Bahia and Salvador.

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 24/11/2012 · Updated on 06/07/2026

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