Mariana & Congonhas Day Trip

Set off on an intriguing historical adventure with the Mariana and Congonhas tour, where you will discover the essential part these locales played in the Brazilian Gold Route while appreciating the artistic contributions of the remarkable Aleijadinho, a prominent figure from Minas Gerais.

Itinerary for the Congonhas and Mariana excursion

Your journey begins with a pickup at Rua Barão de Camargos, 126 , at the designated time, as we start our exploration towards the enchanting cities of Mariana and Congonhas, located in the vibrant Minas Gerais region.

The first destination is Congonhas, a 17th-century town rich in history shaped by early explorers searching for gold and resources. We will begin our tour at the Sanctuary of the Lord Good Jesus of Matosinhos, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. Here, you will be captivated by its stunning architecture and history as a vital colonial pilgrimage site.

The courtyard showcases extraordinary sculptures depicting the Twelve Prophets from the Old Testament, created by the illustrious artist Aleijadinho during the early 1800s. You will find this experience truly remarkable!

Next, we will proceed to the chapels of Passos da Paixão de Cristo, affectionately known as "Passinhos," where the representations of Christ's Passion are beautifully illustrated, exemplifying Aleijadinho's remarkable contribution. Our visit wraps up at the local museum in Congonhas, where you can further immerse yourself in the city's extensive history.

After a one-hour lunch break at a nearby restaurant, we will continue our adventure in Mariana, which once served as the capital of Minas Gerais. Stroll through the historic Minas Gerais Square, framed by monuments from the colonial period, as your guide reveals the significance of the area in the Brazilian Gold Route. Enjoy views of the Pelourinho and the Casa de Câmara e Cadeia, now functioning as the City Hall.

Our exploration of Mariana includes a visit to the Cathedral, officially known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, a storied building constructed in 1703. Nearby lies the striking Nossa Senhora do Carmo Church, a remarkable example of rococo architecture fashioned over a period of just 50 years.

To conclude our experience, we will explore the Passagem mine, where you will gain fascinating insights into the methods of precious metal extraction. Get ready for an awe-inspiring visit!

After 9 hours of in-depth exploration, we will make our way back to the pickup location, bringing our tour to a close as we bid you farewell.