Chapel of Our Lady of the Head: A Small Jewel of Rio de Janeiro's Cultural Heritage

Abstract

According to respected chroniclers of our city's history, such as Mello Moraes and Vivaldo Coaracy, this year of 2004 marks the 400th anniversary of the consecration of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Head, located in the Botanical Garden. Little known to cariocas, as it is not open to public visitation, it is the oldest religious temple in the city that has preserved its original architectural configuration. The alterations it has undergone have not compromised its modest grandeur, and its state of preservation is admirable.