Congonhas

Congonhas (Congonhas do Campo until 1948) is a historical Brazilian city located in the state of Minas Gerais. It is situated 90 kilometres (56 mi) south from Belo Horizonte, the capital of state of Minas Gerais, by the highway BR-040. As of 2020, the city had a population of 55,309.[1]

Panoramic view of Congonhas
This article is about Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil. For Congonhas-São Paulo Airport, see Congonhas-São Paulo Airport. For Congonhas do Norte, Minas Gerais (South of Belo Horizonte), see Congonhas do Norte. For Congonhas, Santa Catarina, see Santa Catarina.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matozinhos
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas
LocationCongonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
CriteriaCultural: (i)(iv)
Reference334
Inscription1985 (9th session)
Area2.19 ha (5.4 acres)
Buffer zone8.77 ha (21.7 acres)
Websitewww.congonhas.mg.gov.br/index.php/patrimonio-historico/
Coordinates20°29′59″S 43°51′28″W
Location of Congonhas in Brazil

The city is known for its basilica - the Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos - and associated soapstone sculptures which were commissioned by Portuguese adventurer, Feliciano Mendes in the 18th century.[2] It was created by Aleijadinho, one of the best artists in the baroque style in the world. The twelve sculptures of old testament prophets around the terrace are considered one of his finest works. In 1985 the Sanctuary was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

References
  1. IBGE 2020
  2. Palmerlee, Danny (2007-01-01). South America on a Shoestring. Lonely Planet. ISBN 9781741044430.

See also
  • List of municipalities in Minas Gerais


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