Sítio Arqueológico São Miguel Arcanjo

Top choice in Rio Grande do Sul


The most moving of the Brazilian missions, this elegant church, designed by an Italian architect who was also a Jesuit friar, earned Unesco World Heritage status in 1984. It's surrounded by the ruins of the Jesuit settlement, which evokes a certain ‘paradise lost.' On a beautiful day, snapping pics will drain your phone battery.

The archaeological site also includes the excellent Museu das Missões.