Belo Horizonte

Belo Horizonte is a planned metropolitan area in the state of Minas Gerais in southeastern Brazil, sitting on a plateau surrounded by mountains. The city follows a grid of wide avenues that branch into different residential districts, business centers, and green spaces.

The city was founded in the late 19th century as the new capital of Minas Gerais to replace the old mining town of Ouro Preto. Architects designed a geometric urban plan inspired by European and American planned cities.

The city is known for its bar culture, where locals gather in the evenings to talk over beer and small plates. On Sundays, residents fill the parks and squares for picnics, sports games, and family gatherings.

The international airport north of town connects to the center by bus transfer and taxi. The downtown area is best explored on foot, while public buses link the different neighborhoods.

The city is home to more than 40 museums and cultural venues scattered across different neighborhoods, ranging from modern architecture to colonial history. A large indoor market downtown sells regional products from across Minas Gerais.

Location: Minas Gerais

Inception: 1701

Elevation above the sea: 760 m

Part of: Microrregião de Belo Horizonte

Shares border with: Nova Lima, Contagem, Ribeirão das Neves, Ibirité, Santa Luzia, Vespasiano, Brumadinho, Sabará

Website: https://prefeitura.pbh.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -19.92806,-43.94194

Latest update: December 2, 2025 23:04