The 18th and 19th century structure of the Capela Dourada is one of the most beautiful colonial infrastructures of Recife Brazil. Its rich altar covered with gold and a well-designed roof attests to the elevated tastes of the era. It is connected to a suite of buildings and a convent, which is tiled with delicate panels with rich religious designs. A remarkable monument of Baroque influence, the Capela Dourada also has paintings on its ceilings depicting scenes from religious history and sacred texts. The altar has already been mentioned but it calls to be cited again as one of the finest there is Brazilian architecture. It is actually an arch of two levels made of jacaranda and cedar wood all plated with gold. There is the golden cross of Christ suspended with silver and gold rays shining behind his head. The Capela Dourada is one of those few places in Brazil with well-preserved religious artifacts. It reminds the people of Recife of two things: its colonization and its religious heritage.
