Minas Novas

At the start of the 18^th century, bandeirantes from São Paulo settled in the region of Minas Novas while searching for gold and precious stones. This is how the municipality originally emerged, first belonging to the state of Bahia and before later being transferred to Minas Gerais. The city’s impressive collection of architecture consists mainly of historical buildings, of which the Sobradão is a particular highlight. Constructed in 1821, this four-floored baroque-style building is made with cob walls and stands over 3 metres tall. Originally acting as a base for local Government, today it is home to the Sobradão Museum and library, and also hosts craft exhibitions. Other cultural attractions include the Chapels of São José and São Gonçalo, and the churches of São Francisco and Rosário. Travel Tips: Visitors to Minas Novas shouldn’t miss out on the Coqueiro Campo Handicrafts. Here you will find clay pieces, decorative vases, pots, baskets, dishes and flowers, among other crafts. The waterfalls at the das Almas Dam are ideal places for bathing and enjoying contact with nature. The facilities include showers, camping sites, bars and churrasqueiras (traditional Brazilian BBQ grills). The House of the Badaró Family, where Tiradentes lived, belonged to the ‘inconfidente’ Domingos de Abreu Vieira, and the building preserves its original, basic style from the colonial period.