Our experience begins at the Basilica of Nossa Senhora do Pilar, one of the greatest symbols of Baroque architecture in Minas Gerais and of the wealth produced during the gold rush. Its impressive interior, characterized by a large amount of gold and rich artistic elements, helps us understand the relationship between religiosity, power and opulence in colonial society in Minas Gerais.
Next, we'll stroll through Horto dos Contos, a historic park located in the heart of Ouro Preto and integrated into the urban landscape itself. The route through the park lets you see the city from different perspectives and understand the economic and urban transformations that Vila Rica has undergone over time.
Our next stop will be the Casa dos Contos, one of the most iconic buildings in Ouro Preto and an important place for understanding the economic and administrative workings of the former Vila Rica. The visit offers insights into aspects of tax collection, colonial administration, mining, and the circulation of wealth produced in Minas Gerais.
Next, we'll continue along the iconic Rua Direita, one of the traditional streets of the historic center, observing the architecture, the townhouses, the urban layout, and elements of daily life that help us understand how the historic city remains integrated into contemporary life.
We will then arrive at Praça Tiradentes, one of the main historical sites in Ouro Preto and Minas Gerais. The site brings together different layers of the city's political and social history and provides an opportunity to discuss the former Vila Rica, the Minas Gerais Conspiracy (Inconfidência Mineira) and the shaping of Tiradentes's memory as a national hero.
Next, we'll pass through the traditional Soapstone Fair, where artisans and sculptors keep one of the region's most distinctive cultural expressions alive. In addition to seeing the pieces, you'll be able to observe the continuity of related techniques and knowledge.
We will then head to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, considered one of the great masterpieces of Baroque architecture in Minas Gerais. The complex brings together works associated with Aleijadinho and Master Ataíde. The visit also helps us understand how architecture, sculpture and painting came together to shape the religious experiences of that period.
The experience continues at the Palácio Velho Mine, an authentic 18th-century gold mine. The underground route, approximately 108 meters long with about 80 meters of accessible tunnels, offers a tangible understanding of mining techniques and conditions. At this point, the experience takes on another perspective: after observing the wealth found in the churches and historic buildings, we enter the space where part of this wealth was actually extracted, reflecting on the labor, exploitation and degrading conditions faced by enslaved workers. The visit also allows us to recognize the technical knowledge and experience of African peoples, which were fundamental to the development of mining in Minas Gerais.
