Pampulha: Beagá for All Senses

A journey through architecture, art, and beauty in Belo Horizonte

Discover the Pampulha Architectural Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in the history, nature, and gastronomy of Minas Gerais.

Belo Horizonte is a city that surprises with its cultural diversity, rich gastronomy, and striking architecture. The capital of Minas Gerais has been featured in international publications like The New York Times and Lonely Planet, which highlight its vibrant cultural scene and architectural heritage. With its famous hospitality, BH (pronounced Beagá) enchants visitors with its tree-lined squares, markets full of traditional flavors, and a thriving artistic scene.

And if there’s one place that perfectly embodies the blend of art, architecture, and landscaping, it’s Pampulha. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pampulha Architectural Complex is a landmark of Brazilian modernism. Designed in the 1940s by Oscar Niemeyer, with gardens by Burle Marx and panels by Cândido Portinari, the site features iconic buildings such as the São Francisco de Assis Church and the Pampulha Art Museum. It is an open-air museum where history and innovation walk hand in hand.

A TOUR THROUGH HISTORY AND BEAUTY

The Pampulha tour starts around 9 a.m., with the meeting point at Alberto Dalva Simão Square. You will be welcomed by a specialized guide who will take you on this fascinating journey. The tour begins with an introduction to Pampulha, explaining its creation in the 1940s and its significance as a milestone in Brazilian modernism. The square also offers a privileged view of the lagoon, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Next, the tour heads to the São Francisco de Assis Church, one of Oscar Niemeyer’s most iconic works. With its curved lines and innovative use of reinforced concrete, the church is a true architectural masterpiece. The exterior blue-and-white tile panel, the main altar mural, the small Stations of the Cross paintings, and the ceramic panel covering the pulpit, baptistry wall, and balcony—all created by Cândido Portinari—are breathtaking highlights. The church also features a garden designed by Burle Marx, perfectly complementing the architecture.

The next stop is the Pampulha Art Museum, originally designed by Niemeyer as a casino but later transformed into an important cultural space. The museum houses exhibitions of modern and contemporary art while narrating the history of the site. Take the opportunity to explore the over 1,400 displayed artworks and enjoy the stunning lagoon view from the museum’s windows.

Another must-visit spot on the tour is the Casa do Baile. With its circular structure that seems to float over the lagoon, this building was created as a venue for events and dances. Today, it hosts temporary exhibitions and stands as a remarkable example of the integration between architecture and landscape. From there, you will continue to the Iate Tênis Clube, a club that seamlessly blends functionality and beauty, harmonizing its architecture with the lagoon. Take the time to capture beautiful photos and admire the construction details!

The tour also offers an opportunity to explore the gardens designed by Burle Marx, which complement Niemeyer’s architecture with organic shapes and native plant species. These gardens invite visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll with breathtaking views of the lagoon and its surrounding structures.

One of the most thrilling stops is the Sunset Viewpoint, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lagoon and the horizon. It’s the perfect spot for photos and to appreciate Pampulha’s natural beauty. To conclude the tour, you’ll have lunch at a traditional Minas Gerais restaurant, indulging in local specialties such as feijão tropeiro (seasoned beans with sausage and collard greens.)  chicken with okra, and sweet milk treats in a warm and authentic setting.

The experience lasts approximately four hours, including photo stops, detailed explanations, and lunch. Whether you’re an art and history enthusiast or simply want to explore one of Brazil’s greatest cultural treasures, this Pampulha tour is a must. Book your spot and come live this unique experience in the capital of Minas Gerais!

HOW TO GET THERE

Belo Horizonte/Confins International Airport – Tancredo Neves