Chafariz do Alto da Cruz
A historic baroque fountain in Ouro Preto, potentially featuring Aleijadinho's first sculpture, rich in art and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Chafariz do Alto da Cruz
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic baroque fountain in Ouro Preto, potentially featuring Aleijadinho's first sculpture, rich in art and history.
"A piece of art history, potentially Aleijadinho's first work, though some feel it's overlooked."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Ouro Preto's streets are very steep. Prioritize comfort for exploring the Chafariz and surrounding areas.
🧐 Appreciate the Art History
Look for the bust believed to be Aleijadinho's first work. It's a significant piece of Brazilian art.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The First Work of Aleijadinho
Alto da Cruz
See what's considered the earliest sculpture by Brazil's master, Aleijadinho, a bust atop this historic fountain.
Baroque Architectural Details
Alto da Cruz
Admire the intricate baroque elements: three gargoyles, volutes, palms, and pinecones adorning the fountain.
Symbolic Bust
Alto da Cruz
The female bust may represent Venus or the Samaritan woman, symbolizing fertility or charity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Ouro Preto's Slopes
Chafariz's Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Ouro Preto's streets are very steep. Prioritize comfort for exploring the Chafariz and surrounding areas.
🧐 Appreciate the Art History
Look for the bust believed to be Aleijadinho's first work. It's a significant piece of Brazilian art.
📸 Capture the Details
The baroque elements like gargoyles and carvings are beautiful. Take your time to photograph them.
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
The Chafariz is near Igreja de Santa Efigênia. Combine your visit to see more of the historic Alto da Cruz.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Ouro Preto's streets are very steep. Prioritize comfort for exploring the Chafariz and surrounding areas.
🧐 Appreciate the Art History
Look for the bust believed to be Aleijadinho's first work. It's a significant piece of Brazilian art.
📸 Capture the Details
The baroque elements like gargoyles and carvings are beautiful. Take your time to photograph them.
🚶♂️ Explore the Surroundings
The Chafariz is near Igreja de Santa Efigênia. Combine your visit to see more of the historic Alto da Cruz.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Chafariz do Alto da Cruz is recognized for its significant historical and artistic value, particularly its potential connection to Aleijadinho's early work and its baroque details. However, some visitors note that it appears neglected and could benefit from better maintenance, leading to it being easily overlooked.
"home, sweet home"
alex carrieri
"O local passa até despercebido por não estar conservado. Necessita de uma bela pintura. As pessoas costumam passar por ali e nem notam o chafariz."
Pilar I.
"Está abandonado. Tristeza."
Lamounier Publicidade & Produções Ltda. lamounier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chafariz do Alto da Cruz is located in the Alto da Cruz neighborhood of Ouro Preto, near the Igreja de Santa Efigênia. You can reach it by walking from the city center, but be prepared for steep inclines. Taxis or ride-sharing services can also take you directly to the area.
Parking in Ouro Preto's historic center can be very challenging due to narrow streets and limited spaces. It's often easier to walk or use public transport to reach the Alto da Cruz area.
Yes, Ouro Preto is a popular day trip destination from Belo Horizonte. You can visit the Chafariz do Alto da Cruz along with other key sites within a single day, though it will be a packed itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Chafariz do Alto da Cruz is an outdoor public monument and does not require an entrance ticket. You can view it freely.
As an outdoor public space, the Chafariz do Alto da Cruz is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety.
There is no admission fee for the Alto da Cruz neighborhood itself. However, some churches and museums in Ouro Preto may have separate entrance fees.
📸 📸 Photography
The late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photographs of the Chafariz. Weekday mornings can also be good for fewer people in your shots.
Many visitors focus on capturing the bust at the top and the intricate baroque details of the fountain. Shots that include the surrounding historic architecture also work well.
Drone regulations can be strict in historic areas. It's advisable to check local ordinances before flying a drone in Ouro Preto to avoid any issues.
🎫 🏛️ History & Art
Dating back to 1761, this chafariz is significant for potentially featuring the first work of the renowned Brazilian sculptor Aleijadinho – a bust at its apex. It also showcases impressive baroque artistry.
The design is attributed to Portuguese Manoel Francisco Lisboa, with the bust at the top believed to be the early work of his son, Antônio Francisco Lisboa, famously known as Aleijadinho.
The chafariz features three gargoyles, volutes, palms, and pinecones. The central bust is thought to represent Venus (fertility) or the Samaritan woman (charity).
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as options might be limited on the steeper paths. Consider a stroller with good suspension or a baby carrier for younger children. Plan your route to include flatter sections of the city where possible, and don't try to see everything in one go.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Pack your own water and snacks to save money. Utilize Ouro Preto's public buses or walk as much as possible to avoid taxi fares. Many of Ouro Preto's most impressive sights, including this chafariz, are best experienced on foot, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere without additional costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Legacy of Aleijadinho
Beyond Aleijadinho's potential contribution, the chafariz itself is a testament to the baroque artistry prevalent in Ouro Preto. Its design incorporates elements like three distinct carrancas (gargoyles), elegant volutes, palm motifs, and pinecones. These decorative features not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also reflect the rich cultural and religious influences of the era. The craftsmanship involved in carving these details from stone is remarkable, showcasing the skill of the artisans who contributed to its creation.
While the historical and artistic significance is profound, some visitors note that the Chafariz do Alto da Cruz can appear overlooked or in need of better preservation. Despite this, its importance as a historical monument and a potential starting point for Aleijadinho's illustrious career makes it a compelling stop for anyone interested in Ouro Preto's rich cultural heritage.
Navigating Ouro Preto's Challenging Terrain
When planning your visit to the Chafariz do Alto da Cruz, located in the Alto da Cruz neighborhood, be prepared for a climb. While the chafariz itself is a point of interest, reaching it involves navigating Ouro Preto's characteristic hilly streets. Travelers often advise pacing oneself, taking breaks, and staying hydrated, especially during warmer months.
For those who find extensive walking difficult, or simply want a more relaxed experience, considering local transportation options like taxis or guided tours can be beneficial. These can help mitigate the physical demands of exploring the city's many attractions, including the historically significant Chafariz.
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