Mosaic of Saint Philomena

O Mosaic of Saint Philomena, located in São Pedro de Alcântara, is one of the most impressive and significant works of art in Santa Catarina. Inaugurated on July 30, 2005, it pays homage to the martyred saint and the local community, conceived by Dr. Marcelo Collaço Paulo, owner of Casarão Kretzer, and created by artists Rodrigo de Haro and Idésio Leal. With rich symbolism, the mural depicts the martyrdom of Saint Philomena and her connection with the history of the German immigrants who colonized the region.

The work focuses on the figure of Saint Philomena, dressed in white, representing purity and Christian joy. In her hands, she holds a pomegranate, symbolizing virginity, and an olive branch, which the white dove gave her, representing hope. The anchor and the decapitated heads depict the martyrdom of the saint, symbolizing her resistance to the oppression of Emperor Diocletian. Boats and fish, in turn, refer to the crossing of the Germanic immigrants who arrived in the region.

On the right side of the mural are representations of the old and current chapels of Santa Filomena, complementing the historical and religious narrative of the work. The mural is a true work of art, not only for its grandeur, but also for the way it conveys the historical and cultural strength of São Pedro de Alcântara.

Rodrigo de Haro, one of the artists responsible for the work, is one of the greatest names in art in Santa Catarina. In addition to the Santa Filomena Mosaic, Haro is also the author of other notable panels in Florianópolis, including the murals that adorn the walls and entrance of the Rectory of the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), one of his most striking works. His ability to transform public spaces into highly impactful artistic experiences makes his work essential for anyone wishing to explore the cultural heritage of Florianópolis and the entire region.

Visiting the Santa Filomena Mosaic is a unique opportunity to appreciate the art of Rodrigo de Haro and understand the deep connection between local history and the cultural traditions of São Pedro de Alcântara, as well as being an excellent way to get to know one of the greatest artists in the state.

Tip: Also check out the Kretzer mansion, an architectural treasure from 1920 located across the street. Although it can only be seen from the outside, this mansion, designed by renowned German architect Oskar von Blumenstrit, was once a commercial center, an inn for cattle drivers and a venue for dances, preserving the vibrant history of São Pedro de Alcântara to this day.