Congonhas
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Congonhas is a historical Brazilian city located in the state of Minas Gerais. It is situated 90km south from Belo Horizonte, the capital of state of Minas Gerais, by the highway BR-040. The city has a small population of 50,000.
The city is unremarkable except for its basilica - the Santuário de Bom Jesus de Matosinhos - and associated sculptures which was commissioned by Portuguese adventurer, Feliciano Mendes in the 18th century. It was created by Aleijadinho, one of the best artists in the baroque style in the world. The soapstone sculptures of old testament prophets around the terrace are considered amongst his finest work.
In 1985 UNESCO granted the Sanctuary the title of a World Heritage Site.
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