museum · Diamantina, MG
Casa de Chica da Silva
A wattle-and-daub townhouse with wooden balconies where Chica da Silva lived with the diamond contractor João Fernandes de Oliveira between 1763 and 1771. Listed as a heritage site in 1950, it temporarily houses the Museu do Diamante (Diamond Museum), whose main building is being restored.
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 Casa de Chica da Silva
The Casa de Chica da Silva is a colonial townhouse in the historic center of Diamantina, on Praça Lobo de Mesquita. It was here that Chica da Silva lived with the diamond contractor João Fernandes de Oliveira, in the 18th century, when the town was still the Arraial do Tijuco.
Chica da Silva was born enslaved, was freed and became one of the best-known figures in the history of Diamantina. The house dates from the second half of the 18th century and was listed by Iphan (Brazil's national heritage institute) in 1950. Today it houses Iphan's office in the town.
The townhouse has two floors, balconies facing the street and a side veranda with Moorish-inspired latticework. Next to it was a chapel dedicated to Santa Quitéria, of which only the doorway remains. The interior holds no original furniture from Chica's time; the walls display paintings depicting her.
The visit is quick and fits well into a walking tour of the historic center. Admission is free. The surrounding streets are stone-paved and steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half an hour is enough to see the house and the facade at a relaxed pace.
Best time
During the day, when the house is open; morning or mid-afternoon light shows off the facade. Opening days vary depending on the source, so confirm in advance.
How to get there
It is on Praça Lobo de Mesquita, in the historic center of Diamantina. The center is small and best explored on foot.
Tip
Fit the visit into a walking tour of the historic center and confirm the hours before you go, because information on opening days varies.
A look at the place
Casa de Chica da Silva 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 Casa de Chica da Silva
Is there an entrance fee for the Casa de Chica da Silva?
No. Admission is free.
Did Chica da Silva really live in this house?
Yes. It was the house where she lived with the diamond contractor João Fernandes de Oliveira, in the 18th century.
Is there furniture from Chica da Silva's time?
No. The interior holds no original furniture; the walls display paintings depicting Chica da Silva.
Where is the Casa de Chica da Silva?
On Praça Lobo de Mesquita, in the historic center of Diamantina, and you can walk there.
How long does the visit take?
About half an hour.