Church of Colegio

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the Church of São João Evangelista, better known as the 'Colégio Church'—your ticket to a whirlwind tour of 17th-century architectural awesomeness! This place is like the rock star of Funchal's monuments, blending international Mannerism with Portuguese Baroque like it's nobody's business.

Nestled snugly in São Pedro parish, the Colégio Church isn't just any old church—it's like the Beyoncé of Madeira's religious scene, dripping in opulence and history. Picture this: a long, elegant layout with not one, not two, but three interconnected chapels, each more jaw-dropping than the last. And inside? Prepare to be dazzled by gilded altarpieces that could make even Elton John blush.

But wait, there's more! Don't even think about leaving without marveling at the Eleven Thousand Virgins Chapel. Seriously, it's like walking into a Renaissance painting, with its ceiling painted to look like the heavens and walls decked out in the most exquisite tile panels.

And let's not forget about the star of the show—the wind-guard door in the atrium. Crafted from sugar boxwood (yes, you heard that right), it's flanked by two holy water fonts shaped like seashells. Talk about fancy!

Oh, and did I mention the facade? It's like a who's who of saints, with reliquary busts of all the big hitters—Saint Ignatius, Saint Francis Xavier, Saint Francis de Borja, and Saint Stanislaus—all looking like they just stepped out of a Renaissance fever dream.

So, buckle up, folks! The Colégio Church isn't just a church—it's a journey through time, a feast for the eyes, and a crash course in Baroque brilliance. Let's dive in and uncover the treasures hidden within these hallowed walls!

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