Day Trip to Mariana & Congonhas

Begin an enchanting exploration of history with the Mariana and Congonhas excursion, where you will uncover the significant contributions these locations made to the Brazilian Gold Route while appreciating the artistic works of the celebrated Aleijadinho from Minas Gerais.

Itinerary for the Congonhas and Mariana Excursion

Your adventure starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Ouro Preto, setting the stage for our journey to the historic towns of Mariana and Congonhas, two treasures located in the heart of Minas Gerais.

Our first destination is Congonhas, a city established in the 17th century, rich in the heritage of early explorers who sought valuable materials and shaped its path. Our exploration kicks off at the Sanctuary of the Lord Good Jesus of Matosinhos, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Here, admire the stunning architecture and learn about its origins as a colonial pilgrimage destination.

The sanctuary's courtyard hosts magnificent sculptures representing the Twelve Prophets from the Old Testament, masterfully created by Aleijadinho in the early 19th century—prepare to be impressed!

We will then proceed to the chapels of Passos da Paixão de Cristo, known as "Passinhos," where poignant depictions of the Passion of Christ honor Aleijadinho's legacy. Our visit wraps up at the museum of Congonhas, providing a deeper understanding of the city's historical significance.

After a one-hour lunch break at a local establishment, our journey continues to Mariana, once the capital of Minas Gerais. Stroll through Minas Gerais Square, rich with colonial architecture as our guide illuminates the city's essential role in the Brazilian Gold Route. Marvel at the Pelourinho and the Casa de Câmara e Cadeia, currently serving as City Hall.

We will further explore Mariana with a visit to the Cathedral, formally known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, a majestic structure established in 1703. Nearby, the exquisite Nossa Senhora do Carmo Church stands as an emblem of architectural accomplishment, constructed in just fifty years.

To conclude our journey, we will explore the Passagem mine, where you'll gain firsthand knowledge about the extraction of precious metals, providing an extraordinary wrap to our experience.

After nine hours of captivating discovery, we will head back to Ouro Preto, bringing our tour to a close as we bid farewell.