sanctuary of bom jesus do congonhas
states: [brazil]
category: cultural
year: 1985
location: State of Minas Gerais, City of Congonhas
region: Latin America and the Caribbean
latitude/longitude: -20.4997222200, -43.8577777800
last visited: 2025
unesco id: 334
world heritage site: 334
The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Brazil, is an 18th-century Baroque complex celebrated for its artistic and religious significance. Featuring a church, ornate staircases, and 12 life-sized soapstone statues of prophets by sculptor Aleijadinho, it reflects colonial mastery. Inscribed by UNESCO in 1985, it stands as a pinnacle of Brazilian sacred art and architecture. The sanctuary remains a striking emblem of the country’s cultural heritage.