Sanctuary of Congonhas

The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos in Congonhas is an outstanding example of Brazilian Baroque and Late Baroque (Rococo) art. Built in the second half of the 18th century, the complex was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. Its most iconic features are the twelve soapstone statues of the Prophets, created by the legendary sculptor Aleijadinho between 1800 and 1805. Below the church, six chapels depict the Stations of the Cross with 66 life-sized cedarwood figures, also attributed to Aleijadinho. These sculptures are regarded as some of the most significant works of Christian art outside of Europe. The sanctuary was established by Feliciano Mendes, a Portuguese immigrant, in fulfillment of a vow after his recovery from illness. Every September, the site draws thousands of pilgrims for traditional religious festivals and processions. The masterful integration of architecture and monumental sculpture makes Congonhas a unique cultural heritage site, showcasing the expressive genius of an artist who worked through debilitating illness to complete his magnum opus.

Nearby cities

Belo Horizonte

The capital of Minas Gerais, surrounded by mountains and famous for its traditional bars (Botecos).

Contagem

A highly industrialized city directly adjacent to Belo Horizonte and an important economic engine of the state.

Juiz de Fora

An important industrial and university city in southeastern Minas Gerais with strong historical ties to Rio de Janeiro.

Uberlândia

The most important city in the so-called Triângulo Mineiro, known as a strong location for agribusiness and logistics.

Caxambu

Caxambu is a traditional spa town famous for its therapeutic mineral water springs and grand 19th-century architecture.

Sao Thome das Letras

São Thomé das Letras is a mountain town in Minas Gerais built almost entirely from local quartzite stone.

Betim

A highly industrialized city next to Belo Horizonte, where some of the largest factories in Brazil are located.

Montes Claros

The largest city in northern Minas Gerais, an important regional center connecting the south and northeast of Brazil.

History & landmarks

Mineirão Stadium

The largest football stadium in the state of Minas Gerais and one of Brazil's most important sports temples.

More places

Ouro Branco Steelworks

A massive steel manufacturing complex operated by Gerdau, strategically placed near abundant mineral resources.

Ouro Preto

A well-preserved colonial town that was the center of the Brazilian gold rush in the 18th century.

Sabará

A historic city near Belo Horizonte, known for its Baroque heritage and the Jabuticaba festival.

Mariana

The oldest city in the state of Minas Gerais, rich in Baroque architecture and history.

Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte

A vast park complex encompassing a zoo, a botanical garden, and a Japanese thematic area.

Betim Automotive Plant

One of the largest automotive manufacturing plants in the world, playing a crucial role in Brazil's industrial sector.

Tiradentes

Tiradentes is a well-preserved colonial town in Minas Gerais named after Brazil's national independence hero.

São João del-Rei

São João del Rei is a historic city in Minas Gerais with strong ties to Brazil's colonial gold era.