In 1940 the mayor of that time, Juscelino Kubitschek, commissioned a young designer in the name of Oscar Niemeyer. The purpose was to design a part of Belo Horizonte to design a new suburb in the northern part of the city. This became to be known as the Pampulha Neighborhood. In this area, there are a lot of attractions that you will be able to see. Places that are distinctive to Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

Church of Saint Francis of Assisi

The most famous and perhaps the most controversial of the structures in Pampulha Neighborhood is the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. The architecture is unlike any other church. This prompted Church authorities to decide not to consecrate it. Another reason for this is the mural painting by Candido Portinari that depicted Saint Francis de Assisi as the savior of sinners. It was only in 1959 that they changed their mind. With its rich history, the church truly is one attraction that you must see.

Federal University of Minas Gerais

Located in the northern part of the city, the University is among the top five largest campuses of Brazil. The architecture of the university represents a vital piece of Belo Horizonte’s landscape. The classroom buildings and even the dorms are a sight to see and these have been proven favorites of photographers.

Municipal Park

The civic art center of the city is located in this park. It also houses numerous trees, gardens, aviaries, an orchidarium, and a theatre; there are picnic spots where you can spend the day under the sun being witness to the wonderful surroundings as well.

Liberty Square

The Liberty Square or the Praça da Liberdade in Portuguese is home to many 19th century buildings that tourists can enjoy taking pictures with. Its entire square that’s surrounded by lined up palm trees is something that would interest visitors, too.

Museum of Arts and Crafts

Museu de Artes e Ofícios as it is locally known showcases Brazilian works before the age of industrialization. They have in display traditional crafts that they have preserved over the years. This museum is the only one in Latin America that is moving towards this cause.

Other museums in Belo Horizonte are Museu Histórico Abílio Barreto, a museum depicting the city’s history, and Museo de Escola de Minas Gerais, a museum that is documenting Minas Gerais’ education history. Another museum that may also tickle your interest is Museo dos Brinquedos who has on display a total of 5000 toys.