Itamarandiba

Initially known as the village of São João Batista, the city of Itamarandiba emerged due to gold and precious stone exploration in the 18th century. Its name means “fine stones which roll together with other stones” because of the round pebbles that would roll in its river. Its main attraction is the Serra Negra State Park, a conservation area of 13,564 hectares, containing springs and diverse species of local flora and fauna, such as the white ingá and the maned wolf. Other natural attractions offered here are the Tromba D’anta Sierra, the Capanga and Penha de França waterfalls and the caves of Lapa Santa and Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. Itamarandiba’s historical and cultural heritage is reflected in the Old Town Hall Building and the churches of Nossa Senhora da Penha, Bom Jesus, Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos, and the districts of Penha de França and Santa Joana. Travel Tips: Expoita, the region’s Agricultural Exhibition, takes place in July, with cultural presentations and rodeos. The Feirita, the Itamarandiba Handicrafts and Typical Food Fair, occurs monthly, offering local cuisine and craft pieces, as well as presenting shows from local artists. A trip to the local market will reveal all the delights of the Jequitinhonha Valley and is definitely worth checking out.