Brazil has a Wealth of Historic Colonial Towns

Brazil has a wealth of historic colonial towns and Ouro Preto, meaning "black gold," is one of the best known of Brazil and considered to be the jewel of Minas Gerais. Wandering around the cobbled streets and discovering its churches is like stepping back in time. Outside Minas Gerais there are many more colonial or historic towns well worth a visit such as Pelourinho and Paraty to name a few.

Ouro Preto

In Minas Gerais you can find multiple colonial towns but the most popular one is Ouro Preto. It is a bigger colonial town with plenty of churches, cobblestone streets, hilly narrow passageways, and colonial houses with cute little balconies. Ouro Preto is set in a beautiful landscape, and once you stand on a hill, you can admire the panorama of the city. If you plan on exploring the city on foot, which is the best way to see the most, put on your walking shoes and be ready to climb the many steep hills. Explore the city's rich history tied to the Brazilian colonial period and the gold rush of the 18th century. Ouro Preto was once a major hub for gold mining, and its historical sites offer a glimpse into this era. Admire the exquisite Baroque art and architecture in the churches, including the famous São Francisco de Assis Church. The interiors are adorned with elaborate woodwork, sculptures, and ornate decorations.

The Tiradentes square is the true heart of Ouro Preto, named after Brazil's revolution leader from the end of the 18th century, whose monument stands in the middle of the square. Like every main square in any other city, this is the center where you can find many artisan shops and small cafes. Two important museums on the square are the Mineralogy Museum containing also the School of Mining on the North side of the square, and the Museum of Betrayal, or Museu da Inconfidência in Portuguese, on the opposite side of the square. From Ouro Preto you can continue your way on the Estrada Real or Royal Road, to visit more historic towns such as Congonhas, Mariana, São João del−Rei and Tiradentes. The Royal Road is a historical route that was established in the late 17th century to facilitate the transportation of gold and other valuable minerals from the mines in the interior of the country to the coast, specifically to the ports of Rio de Janeiro.

Pelourinho

Pelourinho offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an enriching and immersive travel experience in Brazil. No trip to Salvador would be complete without a tour through the historic Pelourinho neighborhood. Pelourinho is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, historic churches and pastel−colored 17th− and 18th− century colonial buildings. Day or night, Pelourinho has a vibrant cultural scene and bustling atmosphere, including live music, capoeira and dance performances, and art exhibitions. The area is known for its Afro−Brazilian influence, with a strong connection to Bahia's cultural and religious traditions. Also indulge yourself in he Bahian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and unique dishes. Pelourinho offers a wide variety of restaurants and street food vendors where you can savor traditional Brazilian and Afro−Brazilian dishes. Last but not least explore the local markets and shops, where you can find handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and souvenirs. It's a great place to purchase unitue items reflecting the Bahian culture.

Paraty