Mariana Colonial Cities in Minas Gerais Holidays & Tailor-made Tours

Located in the State of Minas Gerais, Mariana is the oldest of the historic cities of Minas Gerais, it is surrounded by mysterious mountains, crystal rivers, silvery waterfalls and lush countryside, and boasts two of the area's most impressive squares.

The Praça Minas Gerais is dominated by two intricately decorated church in the typical style of the region; Nossa Senhora do Carmo, with its distinctive cylindrical towers, and São Francisco de Asis, both of which provide further examples of the brilliance of O Aleijadinho. From here, Mariana tumbles gently down cobbled streets, lined with colourful art shops, fascinating museums and restaurants serving local cuisine.

Mariana's most beautiful square is Praça Gomes Freire - a leafy and verdant square, centred around a green pond and surrounded by historic colonial architecture. It is a largely peaceful space in which to sit and watch the Mariananses ambling by or meeting in the local restaurants. 

The cathedral of Mariana is of a classic and understated nature, with a Baroque interior and a magnificent 400 year old German organ, upon which concerts are regularly performed.