Congonhas

There is another settlement called Congonhas in Minas Gerais state, south of Belo Horizonte (see Congonhas do Norte), and yet another in Santa Catarina state (see Congonhas, Santa Catarina).

For the airport, see Congonhas/São Paulo Airport.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas *
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Country	Brazil
Type	Cultural
Criteria	i, iv
Reference	334
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)
* Name as inscribed on World Heritage List ** Region as classified by UNESCO

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 notable for its basilica - the Santuário do Bom Jesus do Matosinhos - and associated sculptures which was 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 soapstone sculptures of old testament prophets around the terrace are considered amongst his finest work.

In 1985 UNESCO granted the Sanctuary the title of a World Heritage Site.

See also

• List of municipalities in Minas Gerais

External links

• World Heritage profile

Media related to Congonhas do Campo at Wikimedia Commons