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This is said to be the world´s largest mine open to the public. In order to reach the mining galleries a small trolley is used and it is held by a steel cable. You descend for 315 m and the total depth reaches 120 m. The visit to the mine is accompanied by a guide (who normally does not speak English, so make sure you have someone who can translate for you). Apart from the grandiosity of the excavation, there is also a beautiful underground lake. If you plan to take pictures, you will need a tripod and a lower shutter speed. Otherwise your pictures will be either blurred or totally blacked out. Tours can be arranged through.
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Old Mine
Opened in 1704, this is oldest mine in town. This mine was dug by slaves and shows the contrast between hand dug mines and industrially dug mines (such as Mina da Passagem). Look for the veins of mica and ocher visible in the tunnel walls. The walking space is very limited and in certain locations can be claustrophobic for those who do not enjoy enclosed spaces.
Built in 1710, this is one of the oldest buildings in the region.
An interesting mine in which you can see petrified trees in the tunnel walls.
This hilltop church, dedicated to an Ethiopian saint, was very popular with slaves and their descendants. It was supposedly built by Chico Rei and decorated with gold from the mine which bears his name. (See below)
Chico Rei Mine, also known as Encardideira
One of the largest and most-visited gold mines in the area, this mine was named for the legendary Chico Rei (see the infobox). There are guided tours.
Many important works by Aleijadinho are elsewhere in the city, but this small museum has a few gems, including a strikingly life-like bust of Saint Francis of Paola.