Introducing Ouro Prêto
Of all the exquisite colonial towns scattered around Minas Gerais, Ouro Prêto is the jewel in the crown. Significant historically as a center of gold mining and government, and as the stage for Brazil’s first independence movement, the city remains vital in modern times as a center for education and the arts, and as one of Brazil’s three most visited tourist destinations.
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Built at the feet of the Serra do Espinhaço range, Ouro Prêto’s colonial center is larger, and has steeper topography, than any other historical town in Minas. The narrow, crooked streets of the upper and lower towns tangle together and in places are too rough and precipitous for vehicles. Navigating the vertiginous cobblestoned slopes on foot can be exhausting, but the views of 23 churches spread out across the hilly panorama are spectacular. The city is a showcase of outstanding Mineiro art and architecture, including some of Aleijadinho’s finest works.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: Taxi from Belo Horizonte to Ouro Preto
by phiphiisthebest 22 May 2012
I was in BH and Ouro Preto in january. If renting a car is not on your plans the most economical way to start is by taking the executive…
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RE: Brasil - North to South Itinerary Advice
by kmingnath 22 May 2012
The North to Rio in 4-5 weeks is a little rushed. Perhaps you could get a flight from Salvador to Rio - it would cost about $200. Personally…
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Re: Taxi from Belo Horizonte to Ouro Preto
by inaciomartinelli 21 May 2012
This kind of trip by taxi need to be combined previously, you can't just go there and say ''take me to other city'' to the taxi driver.…
Hotels & Hostels in Ouro Prêto
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Pousada Abigail Condé
Ouro Prêto
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Pousada Sinhá Olímpia
Ouro Prêto
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Pousada Solar Nossa Senhora das Merces
Ouro Prêto
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