Visit CATHEDRAL BELLS; IN THE HEART OF ONE OF THE 7 WONDERS OF BRAZIL

Discovering the Catedral de Pedra in Canela: A Must-See of Brazil’s Serra Gaúcha

If you’re wandering through the charming streets of Canela, Brazil, a visit to Catedral de Pedra (Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes) should be at the top of your list. This isn’t just a church; it’s a striking Gothic-style monument that has become one of the 7 wonders of Brazil. For about $4.61 per person, you get a journey that combines history, breathtaking views, and the chance to hear the 12 bronze bells ring out. The experience lasts around 20 to 50 minutes, making it a perfect quick stop during your day of sightseeing.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to climb inside the tower for a panoramic view of Canela and the surrounding mountains—an impressive reward after the ascent. Plus, the museum of sacred art offers insight into the church’s construction and the craftsmanship behind the carillon, weighing a total of 4 tons, made by Italian artisans. The only possible drawback? The climb involves several steps, which might be a challenge for some, but the stunning vistas at the top make it worth every effort.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy architecture, history, and scenic views, especially those eager to experience a local religious site with a bit of adventure. If you’re curious about cultural landmarks with a touch of thrill, this is an ideal stop. It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates authentic, less commercialized experiences and doesn’t mind a bit of physical exertion for a great reward.

Key Points

• Stunning Gothic Architecture: The cathedral’s design is a beautiful example of English Gothic style, making it a visual feast.
• Tower Climb for Panoramic Views: Climbing inside the tower offers a memorable 360-degree look at Canela and the mountains beyond.
• Historical and Artistic Insight: The museum showcases sacred art and the story behind the church and its famous carillon.
• Affordable and Accessible: At just over four dollars, it offers great value and is open most days with flexible hours.
• Authentic Experience: The guided climb and the chance to hear the bells create a genuine, memorable encounter.
• Mixed Reviews on Service: While many praise the view and historical aspects, some note that staff politeness can vary.

An In-Depth Look at the Catedral de Pedra Tour

When we first arrived in Canela, the imposing presence of the Catedral de Pedra immediately caught our attention. Its 65-meter-high tower and intricate stonework are visible from quite a distance, standing out amid the town’s charming streets. The cathedral’s English Gothic style makes it unique in Brazil, where Baroque and Portuguese influences are more typical. It’s a structure that commands respect—both for its size and the craftsmanship involved.

The Visit to the Tower

The main highlight of this tour is the climb inside the tower. For a modest fee, you get access to a museum of sacred art, where you can learn about the church’s construction and the artisans involved. One of the most fascinating features is the carillon of 12 bronze bells, designed and made by Giacomo Crespi from Italy. Weighing a total of 4 tons, these bells have a deep, resonant sound that echoes through Canela during special occasions.

Climbing the tower involves navigating a series of stairs, which some reviews describe as long but manageable. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic vista of Canela, its mountains, and the surrounding landscape. The balconies at the top allow for some excellent photo opportunities, and the sense of achievement at reaching the summit is quite satisfying.

The Sacred Art Museum

Back on the ground, the museum of sacred art offers a deeper understanding of the cathedral’s spiritual significance. The paintings and sculptures—such as the Via Sacra—are crafted with care, using wood and clay, and include paintings with gold thread embroidery. As one reviewer pointed out, the artifacts are impressive, some with 18k gold embroidery, adding a layer of preciousness to the experience.

The Bells and the Experience

Hearing the carillon ring is a highlight for many visitors. The set of bells, which can be touched and rung during your visit, creates a magical soundscape that echoes beautifully across the town. If you time your visit well, you might be able to listen to the bells during their regular chimes or even ring them yourself—a truly memorable moment.

Suggested Timing and Tips

Many travelers choose to visit near sunset, as some reviews mention the spectacular views and sunsets from the tower. Climbing early in the day can give you a quieter experience, while late afternoon visits offer the chance to catch the sunset and hear the bells ring as the day closes. Most visits last around 20 to 50 minutes, so it fits well into a busy itinerary.

The Authentic Charm and Practicalities

The cost of just $4.61 makes this a fantastic value for such a meaningful experience. The tour operates most days from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:40 pm to 7:00 pm, giving you plenty of flexibility. The ticket includes the climb, museum entry, and the chance to appreciate the magnificent views.

Many reviews note that the staff may vary in politeness, but overall, the experience is well-organized. The meeting point is at the Paróquia Nossa Senhora de Lourdes, right in the town center, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. The climb itself is suitable for most, but those with mobility issues or a fear of heights may want to consider their comfort level.

Overall Value

The price point for this experience allows you to access a notable piece of Canela’s cultural identity without breaking the bank. For travelers interested in architecture, religious art, and panoramic views, the tour offers a balanced mix of history, spirituality, and adventure.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those seeking authentic local sights. It also suits families, as the climb and museum are manageable and educational. If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful vistas at sunset or listening to historic bells, this is a small but significant adventure that will leave you with lasting memories.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In short, the Visit CATHEDRAL BELLS tour in Canela offers a blend of cultural depth, stunning views, and manageable adventure. For just over four dollars, you’ll gain access to a spectacular Gothic structure, enjoy a climb with breathtaking vistas, and experience the evocative sound of historic bells. It’s a great value for anyone interested in Brazilian architecture, religious art, or scenic excursions.

While the service quality can vary, the overall experience remains authentic and memorable. It’s especially suited for passionate travelers who want a meaningful glimpse of local heritage, without long waits or high costs. If you’re in Canela and love small-scale, meaningful experiences, you’ll find this tour well worth your time.

FAQ

How long does the tour take?
Most visits last between 20 and 50 minutes, depending on how much time you spend climbing, exploring the museum, and enjoying the views.

What is included in the ticket?
The ticket covers your climb inside the tower, access to the sacred art museum, and the experience of hearing the bells ring.

Is the climb suitable for everyone?
The climb involves stairs and could be challenging for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights. However, many reviews mention it as manageable for most visitors.

Can I see the city from the top?
Yes, the top of the tower offers a panoramic view of Canela and the mountains, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

What are the opening hours?
The tour runs from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 2:40 pm to 7:00 pm most days, allowing flexibility for planning your visit.

Is there an opportunity to ring the bells?
Some visitors have been invited to touch and ring the bells, adding a personal and musical touch to the experience.

Whether you’re drawn by the architecture, eager to hear the bells, or simply want a beautiful view, this tour offers a straightforward yet memorable slice of Canela’s charm. It’s affordable, authentic, and packed with small moments that make travel special.