Convento de São Francisco de Olinda
R$The Convento de São Francisco, or Convento de Nossa Senhora das Neves, was founded in 1585 near Alto da Sé, in Olinda, and is considered the first Franciscan convent in Brazil. It holds a large collection of Portuguese azulejos (painted ceramic tiles). It is a good fit for those who enjoy sacred art, history and photography.
Part of the guide Olinda
Getting there from Porto de Galinhas
By car, it is about 67 to 69 km from Porto de Galinhas, via Recife, 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes without traffic. The convent is at Rua de São Francisco, 280, near Alto da Sé, so you can fit the visit into the same walk that takes in the Catedral da Sé and the small market. Recife and Olinda city tours leave Porto de Galinhas Monday to Saturday, with admission tickets not included.
Hours and admission
Admission cost R$ 5 at the end of 2025, paid by Pix, Brazil's instant payment; at the time, the convent did not accept cards. The convent closes at lunchtime and may be closed on Sundays, so it is best to plan your visit for a weekday morning or afternoon.
What to see
The highlight is the 17th- and 18th-century Portuguese azulejos, described as the largest collection of its kind in the Northeast, with scenes from the life of Saint Francis. The inner courtyard is lined with tile panels, and the sacristy has its walls and ceiling entirely covered. The complex includes the Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Neves, the Capela de São Roque, from 1711, and the Capela de Santana, as well as wooden furniture and wooden door and window frames.
Before you go
Allow about half an hour. Have Pix ready, since card payment was not accepted at the end of 2025.