Congonhas as a city is boring and dirty but the basilica, the statues and cedarwood carvings are amongst the most beautiful I have seen. I visited as a (partial) day trip from Belo Horizonte; a great hub to tick off 4 or 5 WHS. A visit doesn’t take long, maybe 3-4 hours including the two museums. Do check opening times! In 2018 the basilica was still under reconstruction so visiting inside wasn’t possible. I was allowed for a peak in side, but it was full of equipment for restoring.

The cedarwood carvings representing the stations of the cross are truly magnificent. I really enjoyed them. lots of details and nice colors although a bit dusty. The 12 prophets made from soapstone are also very detailed. Museums were closed unfortunately but the rosaria I could have a look around although not inside.

A WHS I highly recommend visiting. Not because it’s huge but because it’s unique.