Brazil's Minas Gerais Colonial Cities
Tiradentes
The birthplace of the martyr to which Tiradentes owes its name, this former gold mining state is probably the best to follow a visit to Ouro Preto. The city retains much of its 18th century charm, and life among the nine streets and eight churches set against a backdrop of the Serra de Sao Jose moves rather slowly.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Tiradentes attracts the wealthy residents of Belo Horizonte, Rio and Sao Paulo, which in turn has sparked a real estate boom as 18th century properties are being used as weekend getaways and trendy restaurants.
Explore the shops lining the Rua Direita in the town center which offer a splendid selection of handicrafts, or visit the Igreja de Santo Antonio, which contains very well preserved gilded carvings of saints, cherubs and biblical scenes.
