museum · Tiradentes, MG
Museu Casa Padre Toledo
Housed in the home that belonged to Father Carlos Correia de Toledo, a member of the Inconfidência (independence plot), it has operated since 1971 and is now part of UFMG's (Federal University of Minas Gerais) cultural campus in town. The painted ceilings and period furniture are among the highlights.
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 Museu Casa Padre Toledo
The Museu Casa Padre Toledo occupies the manor that was the home of Father Carlos Correia de Toledo e Melo, vicar of Tiradentes and one of the most active members of the Inconfidência Mineira (a 1789 independence plot). Built in the 18th century, the house hosted meetings linked to the plot. Today it is a cultural space of UFMG (Federal University of Minas Gerais), open to visitors.
The manor has a single floor and a turret, added when the priest was already living there. The foundations are stone and the walls are moledo, a local stone that is easy to carve. The building was listed as a national historic heritage site in 1952.
The highlight is the ceilings. Of the 13 rooms in the main house, 9 have ceilings painted in the Rococo style, something rare in homes of the period and more common in churches. In the Sala dos Cinco Sentidos (Room of the Five Senses), mythological couples represent the human senses. The collection also includes paintings, sculptures, furniture and liturgical objects.
The visit is relaxed and good for those who enjoy colonial history and art. Wheelchair access is difficult, because of the old street paving and the entrance to the house.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One hour lets you go through the rooms at a relaxed pace and look at the painted ceilings.
Best time
Any time of year. Go in the morning or mid-afternoon, away from the weekend crowds, to see the rooms more peacefully.
How to get there
It is on Rua Padre Toledo, in the historic center of Tiradentes. From the Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio, just walk along Rua Padre Toledo to the end, a few minutes on foot.
Tip
Look up in every room: the painted ceilings are the most beautiful part of the house. If guides are available, ask for the guided tour, which explains the story of the priest and the Inconfidência.
Official website
A look at the place
Museu Casa Padre Toledo 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 Museu Casa Padre Toledo
Is there an entrance fee for the Museu Casa Padre Toledo?
Yes, there is an admission fee, with half price and free entry for some groups, such as Tiradentes residents. Check prices on the official website.
Who was Father Toledo?
Carlos Correia de Toledo e Melo was the vicar of Tiradentes and one of the most active participants in the Inconfidência Mineira (a 1789 independence plot). The house where he lived hosted meetings linked to the movement.
What is there to see at the museum?
The Rococo-style painted ceilings, found in 9 of the 13 rooms, as well as paintings, sculptures, furniture and religious objects in the collection.
How long does the visit take?
About an hour is enough to see all the rooms at a relaxed pace.
Can I walk there from downtown?
Yes. The museum is on Rua Padre Toledo, in the historic center, a few minutes' walk from the Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio.