Congonhas

This article is about Congonhas do Campo, Minas Gerais, Brazil. For Congonhas-São Paulo Airport, see Congonhas-São Paulo Airport. For Congonhas do Norte, Minas Gerais (South of Belo Horizonte), see Congonhas do Norte. For Congonhas, Santa Catarina, see Santa Catarina.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Matosinhos
Name as inscribed on the World Heritage List
Type Cultural
Criteria i, iv
Reference 334
UNESCO region Latin America and the Caribbean
Coordinates 20°29′59″S 43°51′28″W / 20.49972°S 43.85778°W / -20.49972; -43.85778Coordinates: 20°29′59″S 43°51′28″W / 20.49972°S 43.85778°W / -20.49972; -43.85778
Inscription history
Inscription 1985 (9th Session)

Congonhas (Congonhas do Campo) is a historical Brazilian city located in the state of Minas Gerais. It is situated 90 kilometres (56 mi) south from Belo Horizonte, the capital of state of Minas Gerais, by the highway BR-040. The city has a population of 50,000. The city is known for its basilica - the Santuário do Bom Jesus do Matosinhos - and associated soapstone sculptures which were commissioned by Portuguese adventurer, Feliciano Mendes in the 18th century.[1] It was created by Aleijadinho, one of the best artists in the baroque style in the world. The twelve sculptures of old testament prophets around the terrace are considered one of his finest works.

In 1985 the Sanctuary was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

References

  1. ↑ Palmerlee, Danny (2007-01-01). South America on a Shoestring. Lonely Planet. ISBN 9781741044430.

See also


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