Congonhas do Campo

Congonhas

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Official name	Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas
Location	Minas Gerais, Brazil
Coordinates	20°30′00″S 43°51′28″W / 20.5°S 43.8578°W / -20.5; -43.8578
Area	304.067 km2 (3.27295×109 sq ft)
Criteria	Cultural: (i), (iv)
Reference	334
Inscription	1985 (9th Session)
Website	www.congonhas.mg.gov.br
Location of Congonhas
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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. 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.