RPPN Sanctuary of Caraça, Private Natural Heritage Reserve in Catas Altas, Brazil
The RPPN Sanctuary of Caraça is a private nature reserve in Minas Gerais that protects forests and open landscapes across its grounds. The property combines ecosystems from Atlantic Forest and Cerrado habitats within a single protected area.
The reserve developed from multiple properties gradually acquired beginning in 1770 under Brother Lourenço's stewardship. The chapel construction in the 1880s marked a turning point in the sanctuary's cultural and spiritual development.
The chapel within the sanctuary displays neo-Gothic design built with regional materials and holds religious artworks that reflect the artistic heritage of the area. Visitors experience the space as a place where spiritual reflection and nature connection intertwine.
The sanctuary is accessible by paved roads from nearby towns, with main entrances connecting to the main grounds. Plan to arrive early and wear sturdy shoes, as exploration of the property takes time and involves walking through natural terrain.
Each evening around 8 PM, maned wolves, South America's largest wild canines, visit the sanctuary's courtyard in a pattern sustained for decades. This rare animal encounter transforms the space into something unforgettable for visitors timing their arrival correctly.
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