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Ouro
Preto, The Treasure of Minas Gerais
By Viviane Rosa
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The writer and
Brazilian novelist Guimarães Rosa states, “Minas
are many, however, few are those who know the thousand
faces of Gerais”. One of these faces is Ouro Preto,
a source of pride for the locals.
Located 90 km from Belo Horizonte, the beautiful Ouro
Preto landscape can be seen between the mountains. The
former capital of the Province of Minas Gerais, the
city became famous for the gold rush in the past and
has a rich historical heritage in Brazil. In 1980, the
city received the title of Cultural Heritage of Humanity
by UNESCO.
Visitors to Ouro Preto understand why the city received
this title. The baroque architecture is found on almost
every corner, on the houses, on public buildings and
churches. Another strong point is the number of museums
in the city such as the museum of the great sculptor,
Aleijadinho, one of the most visited tourist spots.
There are so many curiosities about the city, which
makes it a never ending fountain of culture and historical
knowledge.
Besides architectural beauty and historical importance,
this municipality offers vast natural beauty and a rich
and varied ecosystem in the surrounding area. Crystal
clear waterfalls, secular trails, beautiful valleys,
splendid lookouts, infinite springs and a large area
of native forest that, luckily, is protected by the
State parks. A lost paradise, amid so many historical
riches and legends of the golden era.
Ouro Preto is also the city of happiness and hosts
many popular parties and cultural activities. Every
year they host the Ouro Preto and Mariana Winter Festival
and the regional Arts Forum. In addition, Ouro Preto
is one of the most sought after places during Carnaval.
Since 2005, the Mayor’s office has organized
a huge party for carnaval revellers. The Ouro Preto
Carnaval is among one of the largest in the country
and every year they have a good structure set up to
receive the revellers, with many hotels and bed-and-breakfasts.
As the Carnaval in Ouro Preto is sought after by tourists
from all over the country and even abroad, it is necessary
to reserve well in advance.
Without a doubt, there are many reasons to get to know
this curious and enchanting city, but if you still need
more reasons, the food in the region is incomparable!
Those who visit Ouro Preto will find hospitable and
welcoming locals. Finally, there is much to see, do
and savour, all this with refinement and charm in a
city that breathes the “mineiro” way of
life.
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