Tiradentes Alleys Tour

Travel Back in Time with a Walking Tour through the Historic Alleys of Tiradentes

Walk through Tiradentes and discover its secrets, amidst cobblestone streets, imposing churches, and a setting filled with history and culture.

Tiradentes is one of the most charming colonial towns in Brazil. The town has preserved its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and baroque churches that tell the story of one of the most important periods in the country’s history. Named after the martyr of the Inconfidência Mineira, Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, Tiradentes is a true open-air museum, where every corner exudes culture and tradition.

Recognized as a National Historical Heritage site and part of the historic towns circuit of Minas Gerais, Tiradentes captivates not only with its architectural beauty but also with its welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. The city invites visitors to travel back in time, immerse themselves in Brazil’s colonial history, explore charming alleys, and be enchanted by the cultural and religious richness that fills every corner.

CONNECTING PAST AND PRESENT

The ‘Tiradentes Alleys Walking Tour’ is a unique experience that takes visitors on a historical and cultural immersion through the city. The tour starts at 9:00 AM at the Bus Station Square and lasts approximately 3 hours. During the tour, you will discover fascinating details about the history and culture of Tiradentes.

The first stop on this tour is the Igreja e Largo das Mercês, one of the oldest churches in the city, built in 1749. The Largo das Mercês, in front of the church, is a charming square that has hosted significant historical events. The tour then continues to the Ponte das Forras, a stone bridge built in the 18th century, a true marvel of colonial engineering and a symbol of the city. It connects the historic center to Largo das Forras, the beating heart of Tiradentes, surrounded by bars, restaurants, and craft shops.

The next attraction is the Capela Bom Jesus da Pobreza, a space rich in stories of faith and devotion. The walk continues to the Capelas dos Passinhos, which represent the Stations of the Cross and are a testament to the strong religious tradition of the city. The tour then takes you through the Beco da Pedreira, one of the most charming alleys in Tiradentes, filled with colonial houses and flowers, creating an enchanting scene.

The Museu Padre Toledo is the next stop. Housed in an 18th-century mansion, it tells the story of the Inconfidência Mineira. From there, you will head to Capela São João Evangelista, a baroque chapel that impresses with its architecture and artistic details, including paintings and sculptures. Continuing through the Beco da Matriz, you will arrive at the Matriz de Santo Antônio, the main church of Tiradentes, known for its imposing façade and richly decorated interior featuring works by Aleijadinho.

The walk continues through the Beco do Pacu and Rua da Câmara, a street filled with colonial mansions that house shops, restaurants, and local artists’ studios, as well as the Câmara Municipal, a historic building that once housed the local government and now hosts exhibitions and cultural events. The Beco do Rosário leads you to the Capela do Rosário, a simple and charming chapel dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Rosário.

The tour passes along Rua Direita, the main street of Tiradentes, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic mansions that tell the city’s history. The guide then leads you to the Cadeia (Museu de Santana), an old prison transformed into a museum that displays objects and documents related to the city’s history. To take in a spectacular view of the town, the Sobrado Ramalho / 4 Cantos is a must-see stop.

The tour continues at the Museu da Liturgia, dedicated to sacred art, with an impressive collection of liturgical and religious objects, and along Rua Jogo de Bola, perfect for a relaxing walk and photos. Finally, the guide will take you to the Chafariz de São José, an old water fountain that once supplied water to the local population, and the Bosque Mãe D’Água, an ideal spot for a relaxing break during the tour.

TIPS

For a tour like this, be prepared! Wear light clothing, comfortable shoes for long walks, and protect yourself from the sun. Now, just get ready to be enchanted by the secrets of the city, moved by the stories of the past, and connected to the essence of Tiradentes. The city has never seemed more alive, and this experience will prove it. Come be part of this journey!

HOW TO GET THERE

Belo Horizonte/Confins – Tancredo Neves International Airport
Bus: Sandra Bus Company operates the Belo Horizonte – São João del Rei route, and Presidente Bus Company operates São João del Rei – Tiradentes.
By Car: From Belo Horizonte, follow 85 km on BR-040 to the junction with BR-383, shortly after the town of Congonhas. Then, continue for another 105 km to Tiradentes.