Background

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos: A Baroque Masterpiece

A UNESCO World Heritage site in Congonhas, Brazil, featuring Baroque architecture and Aleijadinho's sculptures.

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The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos in Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil, is an 18th-century Roman Catholic basilica and a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its Baroque architecture, Rococo interior, and the expressive sculptures of the Old Testament prophets and Stations of the Cross by the renowned artist Aleijadinho.

A brief summary to Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos

  • Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-6 pm
  • Friday 7 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive grounds and climbing the stairways.
  • Visit during the week to avoid the largest crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of Aleijadinho's sculptures and the architecture.
  • Check out the Museu de Congonhas to learn more about the sanctuary's history and artistic significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Congonhas, the Sanctuary is a manageable walk, though uphill. Follow the signs towards the Praça do Santuário. The walk offers views of the town and surrounding landscape. Upon arrival at the Praça do Santuário, the entrance to the Sanctuary is easily visible.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run from various points in Congonhas to the vicinity of the Sanctuary. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the bus stop, a short walk is required to reach the Sanctuary entrance. Bus fares are typically around R$4-5.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Congonhas. A ride from the city center to the Sanctuary will cost approximately R$15-25, depending on traffic and time of day. This is a convenient option for those with mobility issues or who prefer a direct route.

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Discover more about Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos

Nestled in the rolling hills of Minas Gerais, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos stands as a remarkable testament to Brazilian Baroque art and architecture. This 18th-century Roman Catholic basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985, draws visitors with its stunning architecture and profound artistic and religious significance. The sanctuary was commissioned by Feliciano Mendes, who vowed to build it after recovering from a grave illness in 1757. Construction began that year and continued until 1875, resulting in the magnificent complex seen today. The design was inspired by the Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, Portugal. The centerpiece is the basilica, boasting an Italian-inspired Rococo interior. The church has three naves, a chancel, and two side chapels. Restorations have added gilt wood altarpieces and carved woodwork. The chancel's ceiling, painted by Bernardo Pires da Silva, depicts the burial of Jesus. Leading up to the church is a grand outdoor stairway adorned with statues of Old Testament prophets sculpted in soapstone by Aleijadinho and his assistants. These expressive figures, each holding a scroll with prophecies in Latin, are considered masterpieces of Baroque art. Further enhancing the sanctuary are six chapels, the Stations of the Cross, each containing polychrome wood sculptures by Aleijadinho depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. These sculptures are renowned for their originality and emotional depth. The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos remains an important pilgrimage site, drawing the faithful who seek blessings and intercession. Visitors are immersed in culture, art and history.

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