São João del Rei

São João del-Rei spans across 1,452 square kilometers between two hills along the Lenheiro River at an elevation of 860 meters above sea level.

The settlement gained prominence in 1713 when bandeirantes discovered gold deposits, leading to its establishment as a strategic point on the Estrada Real trade route.

The Federal University of São João del-Rei maintains educational traditions while the city celebrates religious festivals throughout the year, particularly during Holy Week.

The municipality connects to major cities through six converging roads and maintains regular bus services to Belo Horizonte and São Paulo with departures from the central station.

The local railway museum operates a 1920s steam locomotive service between São João del-Rei and Tiradentes, running two round trips every weekend.

Location: Minas Gerais

Inception: December 8, 1701

Elevation above the sea: 1,025 m

Shares border with: Barbacena, Nazareno, Santa Cruz de Minas, Coronel Xavier Chaves, Piedade do Rio Grande, Carrancas, Madre de Deus de Minas, Conceição da Barra de Minas, Ibertioga, Ritápolis, Prados, Tiradentes

Website: https://saojoaodelrei.mg.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -21.13583,-44.26194

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:13