This is one of Brazil's most beautiful monasteries. São Francisco's construction was interrupted by battles with the Dutch and French, resulting in a beautiful but architecturally confused complex built over two centuries (1589–1779). The facade, the church towers and the adjoining Santo Antônio monastery display a hodgepodge of styles.
Its highlight, especially for the quantity of gold adorning its altars, is the chapel, Capela de la Ordem Terceira de São Francisco. Portuguese-tile walls lead up to the church’s carved jacaranda doors.
