Historic Cities of Minas Gerais

Historic Cities of Minas Gerais: Brazil’s Cultural and Architectural Heritage

Minas Gerais, a Brazilian state with a rich cultural and historical heritage, is home to some of the country’s most emblematic historic cities.

These cities boast colonial architecture, baroque churches, sacred art and a unique atmosphere reminiscent of Brazil’s gold rush.

The historic cities of Minas Gerais were built during the mining fever that gripped the country in the 18th century and lasted through the first decades of the 19th century.

Division of historical circuits

The historic cities of Minas Gerais are usually grouped into two large circuits:

1. Gold Circuit

Includes:

  • Ouro Preto
  • Mariana Island
  • São João del-Rei
  • Tiradentes
  • Congonhas
  • Several surrounding towns and districts

2. Diamond Circuit

Main centres:

  • Diamantina
  • Serro

Among them, Ouro Preto and Diamantina have been recognised as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The others, even without this formal recognition, contain real artistic and architectural treasures.

What they all have in common – preserved houses, gorgeous churches and monuments, uneven cobblestones and beautiful natural landscapes – creates a unique atmosphere where nature and history, past and present intertwine in an almost indescribable way.

Main Historic Towns in Minas Gerais

1. Ouro Preto

Main features

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980.
  • An icon of Baroque architecture, the Church of St Francis of Assisi stands out, with works by Aleijadinho and paintings by Mestre Ataíde.
  • Home to the Federal University of Ouro Preto, which enriches the local cultural life.

Main attractions

  • Museum of the Inconvenience
  • Church of St Francis of Assisi
  • Gold mines open to visitors, such as the Chico Rei Mine

2. Tiradentes

Features

  • One of the best preserved colonial cities in Brazil.
  • Gastronomic tourism is a highlight, with festivals and renowned restaurants.

Main attractions

  • Mother Church of St. Anthony
  • São José Fountain (1749)
  • Ride of Maria Fumaça to São João del-Rei

3. São João del Rei

Characteristics

  • The birthplace of Tiradentes.
  • Famous for its colonial churches, such as São Francisco de Assis, with works by Aleijadinho.

Main attractions

  • Church of St Francis of Assisi
  • Regional Museum
  • Maria-Fumaça Ride to Tiradentes

4. Marianas

Main features

  • The first capital of Minas Gerais, founded in 1696.
  • It preserves important examples of colonial architecture.

Main attractions

  • Cathedral of Sé, with one of the most beautiful baroque organs in the country.
  • Minas Gerais Square, surrounded by historic buildings
  • Passagem Mine, with guided tours

5. Diamantina

Features

  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Developed during the Diamond Cycle in the 18th century

Main attractions

  • Chica da Silva House
  • Metropolitan Cathedral of St Anthony
  • Vesperata, evening concerts on the colonial balconies

6. Congonhas

Features

  • Famous for the works of Aleijadinho, especially the Twelve Prophets.
  • Home to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos, an important pilgrimage destination

Main attractions

  • Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos
  • Congonhas Museum

7. Sabará

Main features

  • One of the oldest cities in Minas Gerais, rich in traditions and popular festivals.
  • Highlights include its baroque churches, with their remarkable artistic richness.

Main attractions

  • Church of Our Lady of Ó
  • City Theatre, one of the oldest in Brazil
  • Gold Museum