See

Mina da Passagem

Mine of the Crossing

This is said to be the world´s largest mine open to the public. In order to reach the mining galleries a small trolley is used and it is held by a steel cable. You descend for 315 m and the total depth reaches 120 m. The visit to the mine is accompanied by a guide (who normally does not speak English, so make sure you have someone who can translate for you). Apart from the grandiosity of the excavation, there is also a beautiful underground lake. If you plan to take pictures, you will need a tripod and a lower shutter speed. Otherwise your pictures will be either blurred or totally blacked out. Tours can be arranged through.

Price: R$17
Website: mariana.minasdapassagem.com.br (opens in a new tab)

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Ouro Preto, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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See

Mina Velha

Old Mine

Opened in 1704, this is oldest mine in town. This mine was dug by slaves and shows the contrast between hand dug mines and industrially dug mines (such as Mina da Passagem). Look for the veins of mica and ocher visible in the tunnel walls. The walking space is very limited and in certain locations can be claustrophobic for those who do not enjoy enclosed spaces.

Closed · opens 8:30 am tomorrowR$5

Drink

Pau a Pique

Bar do Vitório

Bar with a great selection of snacks like country sausage, chorizo, duck with rice, pork with rice, pork rind, roast beef, canjiquinha and gallopé.

See

Capela do Padre Faria

Built in 1710, this is one of the oldest buildings in the region.

See

Mina Fonte Meu Bem Querer

An interesting mine in which you can see petrified trees in the tunnel walls.

Daily 08:00-18:00