Lesson 17:
São João Del Rei
São João Del Rei combines the best of both worlds: exquisite and contemporary in the city centre, yet tranquil and culturally rich in its historical centre. Not only does it host the baroque but also a larger variety of architectural styles and genres in the historical area!
World-class shopping, history, and proximity to Tiradentes make São João Del Rei a must-visit destination that offers a wealth of bars, restaurants, churches, and museums. You can also catch the steam train ride to Tiradentes.
The city has a strong secular tradition, including its chiming of the bells, signalling to those who hear them where, when and what ceremony the celebrant will perform and if there may be a procession.
Attractions:
- The chiming of the church bells, as well as the Symphony of Bells
- Church of São Francisco de Assis
- Railway museum, and take the Maria Fumaça steam train tour to Tiradentes
- Museum of tin and tin craft
- Street carnival
- Nearby - the oldest distillery in Minas Gerais and one of the oldest in Brazil is located in Coronel Xavier Chaves, Lagoa Dourada (Golden Pond) is approximately 36 kilometres from Tiradentes, taste the delicious rocambole (Swiss roll)
Facts:
- Average temperature: 19 °C
- Nearest airport: Castelo Branco
- Distances between destinations:
Belo Horizonte 180 kilometres Ouro Preto 136 kilometres São João del Rei 12 kilometres Diamantina 373 kilometres