Church of St. Francis

Planning the architecture of a church has been a problem for contemporary architects. The general tendency is to go back to the old, well worn forms. Pampulha Church, however retains the old world charm that prevails in the other buildings of the locality designed by Niemeyer.Pampulha Church, however retains the old world charm that prevails in the other buildings of the locality designed by Niemeyer.
Two great vaults cover the nave and high altar. The bell tower and the marquee at the entrance serve as contrasting elements. The building however triggered a great deal of animosity among some people. One mayor went as far as to propose the demolition of the building and its replacement by a copy of the church of Saint Francis in Ouro Preto. Later, he went on and filled the church with altars, benches and pews of miscellaneous origin. Finally, National Department of Artistic and Historical Patrimony decided to take the church under its jurisdiction, saving it from those who were either unable or unwilling to understand it.Ouro Preto. Later, he went on and filled the church with altars, benches and pews of miscellaneous origin. Finally, National Department of Artistic and Historical Patrimony decided to take the church under its jurisdiction, saving it from those who were either unable or unwilling to understand it.