Minas Gerais, a treasure trove of history and culture, is home to historic cities that are true jewels of Brazil’s cultural heritage. On this route, you’ll find Ouro Preto, Tiradentes, Congonhas, São João Del Rei, Mariana, Diamantina, Sabará and Serro, each offering a unique experience rich in architectural and cultural attractions.

. These cities preserve traditions dating back to the colonial period and have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They keep history alive through magnificent churches, civic buildings, historic residences, traditional festivities and cultural traditions that have spanned centuries. All this is enriched by the region’s unique geography, with its hills and mountains that are typical of Minas Gerais.

Located a short distance from the capital, Belo Horizonte, these cities allow you to immerse yourself in the riches of the Baroque and Rococo architectural styles that marked Colonial Brazil.

Ouro Preto, one of the highlights of the region, has the largest Baroque architectural complex in Brazil, with notable churches such as São Francisco de Assis and the Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar. Here, the works of Aleijadinho and a variety of museums, including the Inconfidência Museum, enrich the cultural experience.

In Mariana, the Mina da Passagem, the largest mine open to visitors in the world, tells the story of the Gold Cycle. São João Del Rei enchants with its baroque architecture and religiosity, while Tiradentes, with its artisan workshops and creative artists, is an unmissable destination. The city is also home to the renowned Tiradentes Film Festival, one of the most important events in Brazil.

Congonhas is home to a museum with 342 pieces of sacred art and popular religious objects. Finally, Diamantina, with its cobbled streets and baroque churches, is another city recognised by UNESCO. Don’t miss the Vesperata, a monthly event that combines music and history in the city’s charming streets.

In Minas Gerais, you don’t just visit historical sites, you become part of history. Get ready for a journey of discovery and appreciation of Brazil’s rich cultural heritage.