Portuguese explorers brought with them the Roman Catholic religion, and subsequently, many churches and chapels were built ​ — some adorned with elaborate wood carvings covered with gold leaf.
Portugali maadeuurijad tõid endaga kaasa roomakatoliku usu ning seetõttu on Brasiilias palju kirikuid ja kabeleid, millest mõningaid ehivad lehtkullaga kaetud puunikerdused.