Recall the kings and princesses of Africa. Their stories echo here at Igreja de Santo Elesbão e Santa Ifigênia. This church stands as a testament to their legacy. It honors two African saints.
Igreja de Santo Elesbão e Santa Ifigênia is more than just a church. It is a symbol of black religious expression in Rio. Its story starts with enslaved Africans. They brought the devotion to these saints to Brazil.
Santo Elesbão was an emperor of Abyssinia. Santa Ifigênia was a princess of Nubia. Both were figures of virtue. The enslaved Africans identified with them. They saw in them symbols of hope.
Initially, the veneration occurred privately. Devotees gathered in a house in Candelária. In 1740, a group of worshippers sought a more fitting place. Antônio Bastos Maya led this group. They moved the images to the Igreja de São Domingos.
Soon after, they formed a brotherhood. It consisted of black men. Some were freed. Others were still enslaved. They came from various parts of Africa. These places included Cape Verde and Mozambique. Interestingly, people from Angola were excluded. The reason remains unknown.
The brotherhood grew. In 1745, they acquired land to build their own church. It was located near São Domingos. Construction began in 1747. The Igreja de Santo Elesbão e Santa Ifigênia was completed in 1754.
A cemetery was built next to the church. It was common at the time. It was initially for members of the brotherhood. Later, all enslaved people could be buried there. This cemetery remained until 1850.
Enslaved Africans yearned for their homelands. So they recreated aspects of their culture here. In 1764, the brotherhood requested permission to create royal positions. These were Emperor and Empress. There was also Prince and Princess. This was a symbolic gesture. It allowed them to momentarily relive their heritage.
The church’s facade is simple. Yet, inside, it holds treasures. These include a rare image of São Bom Homem. He is the patron saint of merchants. The church also has a collection of sacred art. Emperor D. Pedro II donated some images.
Igreja de Santo Elesbão e Santa Ifigênia faced challenges. With the abolition of slavery in 1888, many members left Rio. The church suffered neglect. But it survived.
In 1913, the church closed for renovations. The images were moved to Igreja do Rosário. After the work was done, they returned in a grand procession.
Today, Igreja de Santo Elesbão e Santa Ifigênia stands as a reminder. It reminds us of the strength and faith of enslaved Africans. It embodies their devotion and cultural heritage. It is a place of worship. It is also a monument to resilience.