The twin towers
Pointed tops.
Ji-Elle — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ji-Elle — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ji-Elle — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ji-Elle — CC BY-SA 4.0
Our Lady of Grace Cathedral, also called São Tomé Cathedral, is the country's main Catholic church, on Praça do Povo in the centre of the capital, São Tomé, near the Presidential Palace. It is known for its twin towers with dark pointed tops and white facade. It is one of the oldest churches in sub-Saharan Africa. Work on the first church of Our Lady of Grace began in the late 15th century near the present site. It became the seat of a diocese in 1534. It was rebuilt between 1576 and 1578, was in poor shape by 1784, and was rebuilt by local people in 1814, with later changes. You see a white facade with grey bands, a large arched doorway in dark blue topped by a round window, and two towers with narrow windows. Inside, the walls are lined with blue and white Portuguese tiles, with a large tile panel above the altar. A broad square and palm trees lie in front. It stands in the city centre, about 1 km from the São Sebastião Fort Museum. Dress modestly, respect Mass times, and do not photograph the nearby Presidential Palace.
Pointed tops.
Inside.
Before the church.
Praça do Povo, central São Tomé
Its origins go back to the late 15th century, with several rebuilds.
Usually yes outside Mass.
