The Metropolitan Cathedral of Manaus popularly known as Matriz Church – the name of November XV Square is known as Matriz Square -, was built in the 18th century next to the Holy Spirit stream and Ribeira, which were grounded by Governor Eduardo Ribeiro, to enhance the construction of the square.
Soon after the founding of the City of Manaus, in 1695, the Carmelites erected the first chapel of the Our Lady of Conception Church, while Amazonas still a Province. The Church was designed facing the Rio Negro River, so that everyone who arrived in the city, through the boats, could see it and identify the proximity to the city.
The architectural projection of the Matriz Church has a Neoclassical style. In the triangular pediment has slightly overlapping columns and two towers containing the bells, while the paintings displayed in the church do not have a definite author and the sculpture of Our Lady of Conception, is of Spanish origin, from the 17th century.
In the historical context the Cathedral underwent several changes in its construction. The Parish was created in 1695, however, the Cathedral was only built in 1786, and in 1850 it suffered a fire. Just five years later, general construction began. The Church was inaugurated and blessed in 1878, 23 years after that fire.
Thus, the church today is one of the oldest monuments in the city of Manaus. The last time it received repairs was in the year 2017.
Municipal Clock
The Municipal Clock was inaugurated in 1927 and installed on Eduardo Ribeiro Avenue. The materials are imported from Switzerland and built on the stone base of goldsmiths imported from Italy. In the circle around the clock you can see a phrase written in Latin: “Vulnerant omnes, ultima necat”, Latin phrase that means “All hurt, the last forest” (it is said talking about the hours; old inscription used on the dials of the clocks of churches or public monuments).
Built at the end of the rubber cycle, nowadays it has become a tourist attraction that makes up Praça XV de Novembro (Praça da Matriz), together with the Metropolitan Cathedral of Manaus (the Matriz), and the Glasgow Fountain or Fountain.
Fountain at Matriz Square
The Fountain – or Matriz Square Fountain – was made of cast iron by the firm Sun Foundry, from Glasgow / Scotland. The composition of the artwork contains a hexagonal basin with six sculptures distributed at each vertex. In addition to having a main sculpture with a vase on its head and several detailed details that can be observed.
The Metropolitan Cathedral, as well as the other monuments in the surroundings, have their historical and cultural value and are conducive to tourist visitation at any time.
In addition to the Matriz Square, you can also explore the region’s rivers and other tourist attractions through one of our exclusive boats or in our nautical packages. Access the RBarcos platform, choose an ideal package and live a fantastic experience in the Amazon.
