Historic Town of Ouro Preto
Location: Minas Gerais, Brazil
Year of Inscription: 1980
Criteria:(i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
Overview: The Historic Town of Ouro Preto was founded in the late 17th century, it is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Baroque churches, and rich cultural heritage. Ouro Preto was once a prosperous gold mining town and played a significant role in Brazil's history.
Prominent Features:
History: Ouro Preto was founded in the late 17th century during the Brazilian gold rush. It became a thriving center of gold mining and was the capital of the state of Minas Gerais until 1897. The town played a significant role in Brazil's colonial history and was an important hub of the independence movement.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: In the 18th century, Ouro Preto was one of the most populous cities in the Americas and considered the cultural and intellectual center of Brazil. It attracted artists, scholars, and intellectuals from all over the country.
Entry Fees: There is no specific entry fee to visit Ouro Preto as a whole. However, some attractions within the town may charge admission fees. For example, churches and museums typically have nominal entrance fees, ranging from 5 to 20 Brazilian Reais (BRL) per person.
How to Reach It:
Where to Stay: Ouro Preto offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Most accommodations are located within the historic center, allowing easy access to the town's attractions. Some recommended places to stay in Ouro Preto are:
Next Stop: Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas 50km to the west
Year of Inscription: 1980
Criteria:(i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
Overview: The Historic Town of Ouro Preto was founded in the late 17th century, it is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Baroque churches, and rich cultural heritage. Ouro Preto was once a prosperous gold mining town and played a significant role in Brazil's history.
Prominent Features:
- Colonial Architecture: The town is characterized by its impressive colonial buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and ornate balconies. The architecture reflects the wealth and opulence of the gold mining era.
- Baroque Churches: Ouro Preto is known for its exquisite Baroque churches, which are considered masterpieces of Brazilian religious art. The most famous ones include the São Francisco de Assis Church, Nossa Senhora do Pilar Church, and the Church of Saint James.
- Aleijadinho's Sculptures: The works of Aleijadinho, a renowned Brazilian sculptor, can be seen in various churches in Ouro Preto. His distinctive style and craftsmanship are evident in the intricate carvings and sculptures found throughout the town.
- Inconfidência Museum: The Museum of Inconfidência is a key attraction, housed in a former colonial prison. It exhibits artifacts related to the Inconfidência Mineira, a movement for independence from Portuguese rule in the late 18th century.
- Mines and Mine Tours: Ouro Preto's history is closely tied to gold mining. Visitors can explore the underground tunnels of the mines and learn about the mining techniques and the harsh conditions endured by the miners.
History: Ouro Preto was founded in the late 17th century during the Brazilian gold rush. It became a thriving center of gold mining and was the capital of the state of Minas Gerais until 1897. The town played a significant role in Brazil's colonial history and was an important hub of the independence movement.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Walking Tour: Explore the historic streets of Ouro Preto on a leisurely walking tour. Discover the town's beautiful colonial architecture, visit churches such as the São Francisco de Assis Church and the Nossa Senhora do Pilar Church, and learn about its fascinating history.
- Museums: Visit the Museum of Inconfidência, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the Brazilian independence movement. The Aleijadinho Museum is also worth a visit, offering insights into the life and work of the renowned sculptor Aleijadinho.
- Mine Tours: Take a guided tour of one of Ouro Preto's historic gold mines. Descend into the underground tunnels and learn about the region's rich mining heritage.
- Cultural Festivals: Plan your visit to coincide with one of Ouro Preto's cultural festivals, such as the Ouro Preto Carnival or the Festival of Choro and Seresta. Enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and lively street parades.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the surrounding natural beauty by going on a hike or horseback riding in the hills near Ouro Preto. Visit the Parque Estadual do Itacolomi for hiking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife spotting.
Fun Fact: In the 18th century, Ouro Preto was one of the most populous cities in the Americas and considered the cultural and intellectual center of Brazil. It attracted artists, scholars, and intellectuals from all over the country.
Entry Fees: There is no specific entry fee to visit Ouro Preto as a whole. However, some attractions within the town may charge admission fees. For example, churches and museums typically have nominal entrance fees, ranging from 5 to 20 Brazilian Reais (BRL) per person.
How to Reach It:
- By Air: The closest major airport to Ouro Preto is Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) in Belo Horizonte. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a prearranged private transfer to Ouro Preto, which is approximately a 2-hour drive away.
- By Bus: Ouro Preto is well-connected by bus services from various cities in Brazil. From Belo Horizonte, you can take a bus from the main bus terminal (Rodoviária) to Ouro Preto, which takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on the bus route and traffic conditions.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, Ouro Preto is accessible by car via well-maintained roads. It is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Belo Horizonte.
Where to Stay: Ouro Preto offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Most accommodations are located within the historic center, allowing easy access to the town's attractions. Some recommended places to stay in Ouro Preto are:
- Hotel do Teatro
- Pousada do Douro
- Pousada Minas Gerais
- Hostel Ouro Preto
Next Stop: Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas 50km to the west