A closer look at a small part of the decor that covers the interior of the Igreja de São Francisco in Porto.
Perhaps the most opulent church in Portugal, the Gothic building dates back to the 13th century. However the interior is somewhat more recent and was part of an early Baroque remodeling in the 18th century.
It is said the interior is decorated with up to 500 Kg of gold in the form of gold gilt wood carvings. Looking at this small section, particularly higher up, it wouldn't be surprising if this turned out to be a conservative estimate.
As far as I am aware the church was deconsecrated many years ago. This was partly due to embarassment about the indulgent decor given how much poverty surrounded the church.
