Congonhas

One of the world’s most important architectural jewels

Congonhas is an obligatory stop on the itinerary of the Royal Road’s historical cities (Estrada Real) as it is where the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matozinhos can be found, with six chapels and the church clearly visible in the landscape. Inside each chapel are scenes of the Stations of the Cross of Christ. Above them stands an imposing church, with 12 statues of the prophets in its churchyard, almost like guardians of the temple, truly an impressive and unforgettable sight.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus of Matosinhos at Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil

This set in the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matozinhos, carved by Master Aleijadinho, is the most magnificent and important masterpiece of the Baroque world. Considered a true demonstration of the devotion and faith of one man that, in 1985, it was formally recognised by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage site.

Considered so beautiful by Frenchman Germain Bazin, a great scholar of Minas Baroque, he stated that it was “the last appearance of God evoked by the hand of man.”

Bom Jesus de Matosinhos sanctuary with the twelve prophets by the brazilian baroque artist Aleijadinho at Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil

• Distances between destinations:
  

  Belo Horizonte	85 km
  Ouro Preto	63 km
  São João Del Rei	110 km