Get to know Minas Gerais - The state

Minas Gerais has a history of gold-rush, colonization and restless search for precious stones. Rich in mineral resources, the State is renowned not only for its natural riches, but also for preserving significant historical sites.

Location: south-east region of Brazil, with the States of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo.

Area: 588,400 km² (6.9% of the Brazilian territory)

Population: 19.728.252 people (2011)

Climate: three different types, according to the region: semi-dry tropical (north), semi-humid tropical (centre-south) and tropical of altitude (predominant in the State and prevalent in the highest regions).

Capital: Belo Horizonte