Atop a small hill in the Glória district, the Church of Nossa Senhora da Glória do Outeiro is a gem of Rio Baroque. White and graceful, it overlooks the Aterro do Flamengo (Flamengo Park) and Guanabara Bay — and features in many old paintings and photographs of Rio.
The church was built in the first half of the 18th century and completed around 1739. Its floor plan was unusual for the time: instead of the traditional rectangular nave, it is polygonal, based on octagons, which gives the interior a surprising and harmonious shape.
Inside, the walls are lined with 18th-century Portuguese blue-and-white azulejo tile panels, which share the spotlight with the altars. Take a close look: the tiles, the altars and the unusual shape of the space create an intimate atmosphere, almost like a jewel box. It is one of the most refined Baroque ensembles in Rio.
The church was much loved by the imperial family. Several of its members were baptized here — among them Princess Maria da Glória, who would become Queen Maria II of Portugal. In 1937 it was one of the first monuments listed by the federal heritage service, today’s IPHAN.
The highlight is the view: from the churchyard you can see the Aterro, the Marina da Glória, the bay and, in the distance, Sugarloaf. On August 15, the feast of Our Lady of Glory, the patron-saint celebrations fill the hill with worshippers and visitors.
Tips: the walk up to the church is short but somewhat steep. Visiting hours tend to be limited, so check the official channels before you go. Go in the morning, when the light is good for photos, and combine it with the Palácio do Catete or a stroll in Flamengo Park.