architectural complex · Congonhas, MG
Romaria
A circular building erected to house the pilgrims who came for the Jubileu do Bom Jesus (religious festival). Restored by the city in 1993, it became a cultural and events space with an inner courtyard.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Romaria
The Romaria is a large circular complex with a wide courtyard in the middle, just below the Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos, in Congonhas. It was built in the early 20th century to house the poor pilgrims who came to town for the Jubileu do Bom Jesus, the big religious festival in September.
Over time, the building lost its original purpose, had other uses and was even partly demolished. In the 1990s, the city restored the complex, which is protected by the state heritage agency (Iepha-MG) along with the surrounding landscape.
The entrance is marked by an arched gateway between two domed towers, the most photographed image of the place. Inside, the old wings of rooms, with doors and windows side by side, surround the paved courtyard. From the courtyard you can see the basilica on top of the hill.
Today the Romaria is a cultural center: it hosts concerts, fairs and events, houses a small mineralogy museum and has places to eat. The visit is relaxed, on flat ground, and pairs well with a trip to the Sanctuary and the Prophets, just above.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour, longer if there is an event or if you want to see the museum.
Best time
In the morning, on dry days from May to September, when the sky is usually clear and the light favors photos of the gateway. In September, during the Jubileu, the surroundings fill with pilgrims and activity.
How to get there
It is on Alameda Cidade Matozinhos de Portugal, in the Santuário neighborhood, a few minutes' walk from the square of the Basílica do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos. Congonhas is on the BR-040, about 80 km from Belo Horizonte.
Tip
Visit the Romaria on the way down from the Sanctuary: first go up to see the Prophets and the Stations of the Passion chapels, then walk down to the courtyard, which has a view of the basilica.
A look at the place
Romaria in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Romaria
What is the Romaria in Congonhas?
It is a circular complex with an inner courtyard, built in the early 20th century to house the poor pilgrims who came for the Jubileu do Bom Jesus (religious festival). Today it serves as a cultural center.
Is the Romaria near the Santuário do Bom Jesus?
Yes. It is just below the basilica, a few minutes' walk from the Prophets' square, and you can visit both on the same outing.
Is there an entrance fee for the Romaria?
Entry to the courtyard is free. Events and concerts may have their own rules; check the program before you go.
What is there to see at the Romaria?
The gateway with two towers, the courtyard surrounded by the old wings of rooms, the view of the basilica and a small mineralogy museum. The space also hosts events and fairs.
Is the Romaria a protected heritage site?
Yes. The Conjunto Arquitetônico e Paisagístico das Romarias is listed by Iepha, the Minas Gerais heritage institute.