Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos showcases Brazilian Baroque art

The Santuário do Bom Jesus de Matosinhos, located in Congonhas, Minas Gerais, stands as one of Brazil’s most significant artistic and religious complexes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985, the sanctuary is a premier example of Latin American Baroque art.

The site features a basilica, six chapels depicting the Passion of Christ, and the renowned soapstone sculptures of the 12 Prophets. These sculptures, created by Antônio Francisco Lisboa, known as Aleijadinho, between 1800 and 1805, are considered the pinnacle of his career and a major symbol of Brazilian Baroque style.

Construction of the sanctuary began in 1757. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the complex received contributions from notable colonial-period artists, including Aleijadinho and Mestre Ataíde. The chapels also house 66 polychrome wood sculptures representing the final moments of the life of Jesus.