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.

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."

• Distances between destinations:
  
  

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