Look at the road, look at the bridge, look at the mountain / where the white church is cut out. This is how Cecília Meireles described the old Vila Rica, and this is how – the church towers and the old roofs standing out against the dark backdrop of the […]
Historic cities in Minas Gerais
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 are known for their colonial architecture, baroque churches, sacred art and an atmosphere that harks back to the period of Brazil’s gold rush.
The historic cities of Minas Gerais were born out of the mining fever that marked Brazil during the 18th century until the first decades of the following century.
The historic cities of Minas Gerais are divided into two groups
1. The gold circuit, to which they belong
- Ouro Preto
- Mariana
- São João del-Rei
- Tiradentes
- Congonhas
- the various towns and districts that surround them
2. Diamond Circuit, whose main centres are
- Diamantina
- Serro
Ouro Preto and Diamantina have been declared World Heritage Sites by Unesco; the other cities, regardless of their titles, also boast treasures of colonial art and architecture.
What all the towns have in common – colonial houses, magnificent churches and monuments, uneven cobblestones and beautiful landscapes – is the untranslatable atmosphere in which nature and history, past and present, are intertwined.
Main historic cities of Minas Gerais
1. Ouro Preto
Features
- World Heritage Site: Ouro Preto was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.
- Baroque Architecture: The city is famous for its Baroque churches, such as the Church of São Francisco de Assis, with works by the sculptor Aleijadinho and paintings by Mestre Ataíde.
- Federal University: Home to the Federal University of Ouro Preto, which contributes to the cultural life of the city.
Main Attractions
- Inconfidência Museum: Dedicated to the history of the Inconfidência Mineira.
- Church of St Francis of Assisi: Aleijadinho’s masterpiece.
- Gold Mines: Tours of the old gold mines, such as the Chico Rei Mine.
2. Tiradentes
Features
- Colonial Character: One of the best preserved colonial towns, with cobbled streets and old houses.
- Gastronomic Tourism: Known for its excellent gastronomy, with culinary festivals and high-quality restaurants.
Main Attractions
- Matriz de Santo Antônio Church: One of the richest gold churches in Brazil.
- São José Fountain: A beautiful fountain built in 1749.
- Maria Fumaça Ride: A steam train ride to São João del Rei.
3. São João del Rei
Features
- Hometown of Tiradentes: Birthplace of Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, the Tiradentes.
- Historic Churches: Famous for its colonial churches, including the Church of São Francisco de Assis, also with works by Aleijadinho.
Main Attractions
- Church of St Francis of Assisi: Famous for its baroque façade.
- Regional Museum: With artefacts that tell the story of the region.
- Maria Fumaça ride: Connects São João del Rei to Tiradentes.
4. Mariana
Features
- First Capital of Minas Gerais: Founded in 1696, it is the oldest city in the state.
- Colonial architecture: Many churches and well-preserved colonial buildings.
Main Attractions
- Catedral da Sé: With one of the most beautiful baroque organs in Brazil.
- Minas Gerais Square: Surrounded by important colonial buildings.
- Gold Mines: Guided tours of old gold mines, such as the Mina da Passagem.
5. Diamantina
Features
- World Heritage Site: Also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Diamond Cycle: The city developed during the diamond cycle in the 18th century.
Main Attractions
- Casa de Chica da Silva: Residence of the famous former slave who became an influential figure.
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Santo Antônio: One of the city’s main churches.
- Vesperata: Musical concerts held on the balconies of colonial houses.
6. Congonhas
Features
- Obras de Aleijadinho: Known for the twelve prophets sculpted by Aleijadinho, one of the largest collections of his work.
- Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos: An important pilgrimage centre.
Main Attractions
- Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos: With the sculptures of the Prophets and scenes from the Way of the Cross sculpted by Aleijadinho.
- Museum of Congonhas: Exhibits the history and art of the city.
7. Sabará
Features
- Cultural Richness: One of the oldest cities in Minas Gerais, known for its festivals and cultural traditions.
- Baroque Churches: Rich in architectural details and sacred art.
Main Attractions
- Church of Our Lady of Ó: Famous for its richly decorated interior.
- Municipal Theatre: One of the oldest theatres in Brazil.
- Gold Museum: Shows the history of mining in the region.
Tips for Visitors
- Comfortable Footwear: Many towns have cobbled streets and slopes, so wear comfortable footwear.
- Weather: Be prepared for weather variations, as it can be very hot during the day and cool at night.
- Local Cuisine: Be sure to try the cuisine of Minas Gerais, with typical dishes such as tropeiro beans, cheese bread and homemade sweets.
Minas Gerais is a fascinating destination for those who want to explore the history and culture of colonial Brazil. Each city offers a unique experience, rich in history, art and traditions that are still alive today.