Capitólio

Capitólio is an administrative division in Minas Gerais, Brazil, stretching along the Furnas reservoir and offering access to waterways and geological formations. The landscape includes canyons with steep rock walls, coves with clear water, and forested hills that extend to the shoreline.

The settlement was officially founded in 1948 and originally served as a supply point for the surrounding rural region. With the construction of the Furnas dam in the 1960s, parts of the original town sank underwater and the municipality developed anew along the created lake.

The name refers to the government building in Brasília and reflects the administrative role that has existed since its founding. Fishermen bring their daily catch to the shores, where restaurants serve fresh fish from the reservoir and visitors can try regional dishes.

Access is through highways branching from larger cities in the Minas Gerais region, leading to the main town center. Best visiting time is between May and September, when weather is dry and views of the rock formations remain clear.

When water levels drop, ruins of the old town emerge at the northern edge of the reservoir, showing foundations of former buildings. These structures attract curious visitors who approach by boat and want to discover the forgotten past beneath the surface.

Location: Minas Gerais

Elevation above the sea: 766 m

Shares border with: Guapé, São José da Barra, São João Batista do Glória, Pimenta, Piumhi, Vargem Bonita

Website: http://capitolio.mg.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -20.61500,-46.05000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:34