Metropolitan Cathedral
A striking modern design differentiates the Metropolitan Cathedral
In stark contrast to the Old Cathedral, also known as the Old Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, stands the Metropolitan Cathedral at 75 metres in height. The shape and architecture of this Cathedral has nothing in common with the Old Cathedral which was created by the Carmelites in the 19th century. Unique in all ways the Metropolitan although new is steeped in symbolism and interesting aspects
The Metropolitan Cathedral, Catedral Metroplitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro in Portuguese, was built between the years 1964 and 1979. It was built in honour of the patron Saint of Rio, Saint Sebastian. The structure, although resembling and inspired by the Mayan pyramids in Mexico, is conical in its structure but does not reach a peak but is flat instead, like the tops of the Mayan pyramids. It is said that this shape is symbolic, representing the closeness of people to God.
Probably the most noticeable feature of the cathedral are the four stained glass windows that run like vertical columns from the ceiling stretching down to the floor. Only evident from the inside of the Cathedral you will note that there is a cross at the top of the ceiling that is made up of glass and covers the ceiling. Each arm of the cross has the vertical stain glass windows running down to the ground. So from the inside, when you look up what you will see is a cross with beams of light coming out from it and reaching down to you. It feels like you are being caressed by the rays of God, incubating you in a womb of multi-colours. I have no doubt that this is exactly the effect the architect, Edgar Oliveira, had in mind when designing this space.
Each panel of stained glass that comes down from above is rich with different colours and each panel represents something different. Each panel represents one of the four 'marks' of the Church; Holy, Once, Catholic and Apostolic. The way the light shines through the panels of stained glass creates a kaleidoscope of colours inside the cathedral.
The Metropolitan Cathedral has a seating capacity of 20,000 seated and 5,000 standing. Apart from visiting the Cathedral to join a mass or to see the architecture, visitors will also marvel at the pieces of art on display at the Sacred Art Museum in its basement. Be sure to put this historic monument on your list of wonders to visit when you are in Rio.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: Av. República do Chile, 245 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20031-170, Brazil
Phone: (21) 2240-2669
Official Website: Metropolitan Cathedral
Metropolitan Cathedral Reviews
Rated out of 5
Its had to imagine what they were thinking when they decided to build this structure. We’ve been to other central cathedrals in Europe and South America/Mexico and the beauty of their architecture, and in some cases the grander, can be mesmerizing. This structure, I’m sorry to say, is a cement cone. From the outside, it looks like an unfinished project that may need a layer of paint. Inside is a just a big hall very a very high ceiling with room to accommodate lots and lots of people. That’s about it. Grand cathedrals and mosques around the world leave you with a humbleness and amazement deep inside the heart. This one doesn’t.
Doc Mo - a week ago
One of the coolest experiences ever visiting this catedral. My family and I really enjoyed it. Definitely sit down and take the moment to appreciate the architecture as well as the atmosphere. Definitely would come back again.
Francisco Diaz - a month ago
Catedral Metropolitana de Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro is one of Rio de Janeiro's icons. Its unconventional appearance attracts crowds of tourists every year.
With its appearance, it somewhat resembles a tent. Inside it is decorated with colorful mosaics.
On a clear day in front of the cathedral we can see the statue of Christ the Redeemer on the hill. The cathedral is located near modern buildings.
Ss Ss - 3 months ago
So majestic... should be a ninth wonder of the world! The building is so captivating... you will be mesmerized by the towering stained-glass art. A holy presence is felt!!!
Larry Banks - 2 weeks ago
Dedicated to St. Sebastian, the patron saint of Rio, this unique and modern cathedral, built in 1964, drew inspiration from the architectural style of Mayan pyramids, but with a conical shape to represent the equidistance and proximity of people to God and the conical miters bishops use in ceremonies.
It’s 315 feet In diameter and rises 246 feet into the air. There is seating for 5,000 people and a capacity of 20,000 people for standing room.
The most notable feature are the four 210 feet tall rectilinear stained glass windows that rise from floor to ceiling that represent the four fundamental characteristics of the church:
One: Color green represents unity of the church
Holy: Color red showcases sanctification
Catholic: Color blue of the church’s mission to save men
Apostle: Color yellow representing the Catholic Church’s hierarchy.
In the center, a cross with Jesus in the center hangs above the main alter with six steel cables supporting it. The ceiling also has a cross made of transparent material allowing light to shine down.
There is a sacred art museum underneath the museum that one can pay to visit.
NOTE: Make sure to get here before 5, since that’s when they close; however, when I visited, they were open until 6. But just to be sure, one should visit beforehand.
James - 10 months ago
Directions
| Metro Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Line 1 Orange or Line 2 Green | Carioca | 8 Minutes |
How to get to Metropolitan Cathedral by Metro
Exit the metro at Carioca Station to the south onto Av. Almirante Barroso and go right (east) along the sidewalk. Keep to the right hand sidewalk that goes up to the pedestrian overpass. Take the overpass across the road and go to your right on the far side continuing along the mosiac sidewalk toward the cathedral. Take the steps on your right just before the parking lot.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Metropolitan Cathedral:
Photo Gallery
-
View of the Metropolitan Cathedral in Rio de Janeiro cc licensed photo by Edmund Gall -
Looking up at the impressive stained glass mosaics inside the Cathedral cc licensed photo by Vincent Poulissen -
The Crucifix inside the Metropolitan Cathedral cc licensed photo by Vincent Poulissen -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: archer10 (Dennis) - cc license via Flickr
Video
Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.
