Brazil

Mariana

Historic gold town in Minas Gerais

Overview

About Mariana

Mariana, the first capital of Minas Gerais, dazzles with its baroque churches, cobblestone streets, and gold‑mining heritage. Founded in 1696, it preserves colonial architecture like the Sé Cathedral and the opulent Mina da Passagem. Today, it’s a living museum where history whispers from every corner.

Logistics

Practical info

Getting there & around

The historic center is best explored on foot. Local buses connect neighborhoods; taxis and rideshare apps are available for longer trips.

Food & drink

Savor Minas Gerais cuisine: feijão tropeiro, tutu de feijão, pão de queijo, and doce de leite. Traditional restaurants cluster around Praça Minas Gerais.

Stay aware

Safety considerations

Mariana is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal caution in crowded areas and avoid isolated streets after dark.

Further reading

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