No description exists of the original facade which presumed to have been in accordance with the Rules of the Order, in a very simple style. The present facade with its ornaments in various styles, comprises three super-imposed bodies. It was modfied in 1702 by the Italian friar João Turriano who left the original Gothic doorway of seven archivolts supported by seven columns. On either side of the doorway, in a niche with pedestal and canopy, is a statue in Carrara marble : Saint Benedict on the right. All along its width is a veranda ornamented with renaissance motifs. On it are four statues symbolizing the four cardinal virtues - Fortitude, Prudence and Temperance. The central nave receives its light through an arch window on either side.