Historic Centre of the Town of Diamantina, Colonial settlement in Minas Gerais, Brazil.
The historic center of Diamantina spreads across hillsides with narrow, winding streets lined by colonial buildings made of wood and adobe that shape the entire urban fabric. The structures sit closely together and follow the irregular slope of the land.
Portuguese explorers founded this settlement in the 1700s following the discovery of diamond deposits, which sparked extensive mining operations under Portuguese Crown control. The wealth generated by diamond trade shaped the town's growth and construction.
The churches of Nossa Senhora do Rosário and São Francisco de Assis display richly decorated interiors with paintings and ornaments that reveal the religious practices and artistic vision of colonial times. These spaces show how faith shaped the community's daily life and priorities.
The center lies about four hours from Belo Horizonte and offers accommodation in restored colonial buildings. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the narrow, steep streets demand regular walking.
The center contains three architectural works by Oscar Niemeyer that introduce modern design elements into the preserved colonial setting. This rare combination shows how contemporary architecture can function within a historical context.
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