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Ouro Preto
Ouro Preto was the first Brazilian town to be declared a world heritage site by UNESCO and the town is a step back into history and past human accomplishments. The town has thirteen large churches and numerous public monuments and buildings.
The most spectacular of the churches are Saint Francis, Our Lady of Carmo, Our Lady of the Rosary, Pilar and Antônio Dias.
Founded at the end of the 17th century, Ouro Preto (Black Gold) was the focal point of the gold rush and Brazil’s golden age in the 18th century. With the exhaustion of the gold mines in the 19th century, the city’s influence declined but many churches, bridges and fountains remain as a testimony to its past prosperity and the exceptional talent of the Baroque sculptor Aleijadinho. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below is a list of things to see and do in and around the town of Ouro Preto
Serra do Cipo National Park. The national park is a full day journey from ouro preto and has some of the best walking in the area as well as the opportunity to kayak and paddle on the calm and clean waters of the Cipo River. Marina: This enchanted city was founded in 1696 and was originally called Royal Village of Our Lady of Carmel. In 1745 it received its present name which was in honour of Queen Maria Ana. A walk down its picturesque streets allows you to see houses which date from the beginning of the XVIII century, with their balconies of wood, iron and even soapstone. In Minas Gerais Plaza, the churches of St. Francis of Assissi with its richly sculptured door, our Lady of Carmel, the City Hall and the Pillory can be found.
Ouro Preto to Mariana by Train: The train ride covers 11 miles in about one hour. Giving you time to appreciate the surrounding mountains and the historic constructions in each colonial town. At the Ouro Preto station, there is a railroad museum, which tells of how the railroad was built with great difficulty during the late 19th and early 20th century, due to challenges posed by the terrain. On the way to Mariana, you'll pass two stations: Vitorino Dias, which opened in 1914 and which served a fabric factory, and Passagem de Mariana, also opened in 1914, whuch served the local mine.
Mina da Passagem: There are several mines in the area but the most known of which is Mina da Passagem. Located between Ouro Preto and Marin, you get into the mine by a trolley car and guided to the secrets of mining by a former miner. A small crystal lake is down there where you are free to swim. Local craft Market; Located next to the church of São Francisco de Assis is the open local market. Craftsmen sell their souvenirs here, usually carved in soapstone or wood. Even if you don't buy anything it is worthy of a visit to watch craftsmen carving the stone with great skill!
Recommended lodges in this area:
Ouro Preto
Located inside an 18th century colonial mansion in the heart of Ouro Preto this hotel offers a great location for sightseeing in Ouro Preto. The hotel is spread over 3 floors. The suites are the best option
Rio de Janeiro
Despite its location away from the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, this is one of our favourite hotels in Rio. What was once a coffee plantation mansion has been transformed into a beautiful hotel
Rio de Janeiro
Located in the heart of Copacabana, the Porto Bay Rio Internacional Hotel boasts modern stylish rooms, a beautiful waterfront setting with gorgeous views, and easy access to the world famous Copacabana Beach.
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