sanctuary · Congonhas, MG
Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos e os Doze Profetas
A UNESCO-recognized complex where Aleijadinho carved in soapstone the twelve figures of the prophets that guard the basilica's churchyard. In the chapels along the path are the Stations of the Passion, in polychrome cedar.
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 Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos e os Doze Profetas
The Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos (sanctuary) sits at the top of the Morro do Maranhão (hill), in Congonhas, and is the town's main postcard image. The complex includes the basilica, the churchyard with the twelve prophets carved in soapstone and, on the slope below, the six chapels of the Stations of the Passion. In 1985, it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Construction began in 1757, as a vow by the Portuguese miner Feliciano Mendes. At the turn of the 18th to the 19th century, Aleijadinho and his workshop carved the cedar figures of the chapels and the prophets of the churchyard, considered masterpieces of the Minas Gerais Baroque.
The visit usually begins at the bottom of the slope, where the Stations chapels are. In each one, scenes from the Passion of Christ are depicted by life-size polychrome wooden figures. At the top, the churchyard with the prophets frames the facade of the basilica, and the inside of the church can also be visited. From the churchyard you get a wide view of the town.
The path between the chapels and the basilica is uphill, and the surrounding streets are steep. In September, the sanctuary hosts the Jubileu do Senhor Bom Jesus de Matosinhos, the town's main religious festival, which draws pilgrims from several states.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Set aside one to two hours for the chapels, the churchyard and the basilica; more time if you include the Museu de Congonhas, next door.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the side light brings out the relief of the churchyard sculptures and the sun is less strong on the climb; in September, the Jubileu (religious festival) fills the sanctuary with pilgrims.
How to get there
It is at the top of the Morro do Maranhão (hill), in Congonhas, a town about 80 km from Belo Horizonte on the BR-040. From the center you can walk up steep streets or drive.
Tip
Start at the Stations chapels, at the bottom of the garden, and work your way up to the churchyard: that way the visit follows the order of the Passion scenes. Wear comfortable shoes because of the slopes.
A look at the place
Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos e os Doze Profetas 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 Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos e os Doze Profetas
Is there an entrance fee for the Sanctuary in Congonhas?
No. Visiting the sanctuary, the Stations of the Passion chapels and the prophets' churchyard is free.
How long does the visit take?
One to two hours for the chapels, the churchyard and the basilica.
Who carved the twelve prophets of Congonhas?
Aleijadinho and his workshop, in soapstone, at the turn of the 18th to the 19th century.
Is the Sanctuary in Congonhas a World Heritage Site?
Yes. The complex was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1985.
Can I walk there from downtown Congonhas?
Yes, but the sanctuary is at the top of the Morro do Maranhão (hill) and the way has steep slopes.