Ouro Branco

Ouro Branco is a municipality in Minas Gerais positioned at around 1,100 meters elevation across a mountainous landscape dotted with springs and natural rock formations. The town has a campus of the Federal University of São João del-Rei that brings academic facilities and student life to the region.

The settlement began in the late 17th century when explorer Miguel Garcia discovered a light-colored gold deposit that inspired the name Ouro Branco. The construction of the Santo Antonio Church over several decades from the early 18th century marked the area's growth as a mining community.

The Santo Antonio de Ouro Branco Church sits at the heart of local religious life, reflecting centuries of devotion through its colonial design and interior details. People gather here for celebrations and daily worship, making it a living center of community identity.

The location sits at about 1,100 meters elevation, which means cooler and often damper weather than lower-altitude areas nearby. Visitors should pack layers and waterproof gear when exploring the surrounding hills and natural formations.

The Serra de Ouro Branco state park protects a large natural area where multiple water springs originate and feed into two different major river systems. This makes the region an important water source for communities far beyond its own boundaries.

Location: Minas Gerais

Elevation above the sea: 1,100 m

Shares border with: Congonhas, Itaverava, Ouro Preto, Conselheiro Lafaiete

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

GPS coordinates: -20.52083,-43.69194

Latest update: December 17, 2025 07:50