Congonhas

Congonhas (Congonhas do Campo) 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. The city has a population of 50,000.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matozinhos

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas
UNESCO World Heritage site
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas
Location Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Criteria Cultural: (i)(iv)
Reference 334
Inscription 1985 (9th Session)
Area 2.19 ha (5.4 acres)
Buffer zone 8.77 ha (21.7 acres)
Website www.congonhas.mg.gov.br/index.php/patrimonio-historico/
Coordinates 20°29′59″S 43°51′28″W / 20.49972°S 43.85778°W / -20.49972; -43.85778Coordinates: 20°29′59″S 43°51′28″W / 20.49972°S 43.85778°W / -20.49972; -43.85778
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.[1] 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. Palmerlee, Danny (2007-01-01). South America on a Shoestring. Lonely Planet. ISBN 9781741044430.

See also


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