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Nossa Senhora do Carmo

church, Ouro Prêto, Brazil

Quick Summary

The Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo in Ouro Prato, Brazil, is a significant example of Brazilian Baroque architecture from the 18th century. Ouro Prato, a city in Minas Gerais, was the center of a major gold and silver rush, fostering a unique culture and leading to the construction of extraordinary Baroque churches.12

The church's design is attributed to the renowned architect Aleijadinho, who collaborated with his father on its design. Notable features include bowed towers that interact with a facade that is both convex and concave. Aleijadinho's work, characterized by intricate portals, windows, and sculpted elements, represents a high point of religious architecture and sculpture in the region. The city of Ouro Prato itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its elaborate public buildings and churches as an open-air museum.12

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