Ouro Preto holidays

Discover Ouro Preto, a colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site founded at the end of the 17th century, located in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. Once a bustling gold-mining town, today it is a treasure trove bursting with old stone fountains, wide cobbled plazas and Baroque architecture. Set against a backdrop of mountains and lush green valleys, this historical town is a treat for anyone interested in architecture, history or art. Ouro Preto's architecture reflects its colonial past, with museums that display the works of artists who lived there during the period. It also boasts one of Brazil's most beautiful churches - the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis. Within its walls are blue-and-white tiled floors, adorned main altars and religious statues surrounded by gold leaf - a true sight for sore eyes. Explore more of Ouro Preto’s surroundings, with a visit to the city of Mariana, which is one of its oldest cities in Minas Gerais, or head to the local botanical gardens or the Museu da Inconfidência, a museum that tells the story about Brazil’s struggle against Portugal. For something a bit different, take part in a gold mining tour to see how this precious metal was extracted from the earth over 200 years ago. Read more