Teatro Municipal

Minas Gerais


Constructed in 1893, this grand old theater in the heart of town stages occasional performances throughout the year (many free of charge).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Minas Gerais attractions

1. Museu Ferroviário

0.12 MILES

The history of the Maria-Fumaça, one of Brazil's first rail lines, is on display at the Museu Ferroviário inside São João's train station. The museum's…

2. Igreja de NS do Carmo

0.15 MILES

This 18th-century church, dominating a lovely triangular praça (plaza), was designed by Aleijadinho, who also did the frontispiece and the sculpture…

3. Museu Regional São João del Rei

0.19 MILES

One of the best regional museums in Minas Gerais, this 19th-century colonial mansion houses three floors of antique furniture, sacred art and assorted…

4. Catedral de NS do Pilar

0.2 MILES

Begun in 1721, São João's cathedral has exuberant gold altars and fine Portuguese tiles. Two of the city's famous orchestras can be heard here at the 7pm…

5. Museu de Arte Sacra

0.24 MILES

In a building that served as the public jail between 1737 and 1850, this museum has a small but impressive collection of art from the city’s churches.

6. Igreja de NS do Rosário

0.29 MILES

This simple church was built in 1719 to honor the patron saint who was protector of the slaves.

7. Igreja de São Francisco de Assis

0.3 MILES

This exquisite 1774 baroque church, fronted by a palm-shaded, lyre-shaped plaza, is home to two Aleijadinho sculptures (second altar to the left) and one…

8. Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio

5.45 MILES

Named for Tiradentes' patron saint, this gorgeous church is one of Aleijadinho's last designs. The dazzling gold interior is rich in Old Testament…