At the very center of Ouro Preto, one of Brazil’s most captivating colonial towns, lies Tiradentes Plaza (Praça Tiradentes)—a place steeped in history, culture, and national pride. Surrounded by cobblestone streets and baroque architecture, this grand square serves as the city’s main gathering point and a living reminder of Brazil’s fight for independence. Named after Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, better known as Tiradentes, the plaza honors the hero of the Inconfidência Mineira, an 18th-century independence movement that began right here in the state of Minas Gerais.

In the 18th century, Ouro Preto (then called Vila Rica) was the center of Brazil’s gold rush, attracting wealth, artistry, and revolution. The square was once a colonial administrative area, but its identity changed after the execution of Tiradentes in 1792, who became a martyr for freedom. Later, in the 19th century, a bronze statue of Tiradentes was erected in his honor, symbolizing his role as the “Patron of Brazilian Independence.”

Today, the plaza is not only a historical landmark but also the social and cultural heart of Ouro Preto, surrounded by museums, colonial houses, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Interesting Facts
- The statue of Tiradentes, inaugurated in 1894, stands at the center of the square, marking the first public monument in Brazil dedicated to a national hero.
- On the plaza’s upper side stands the Museu da Inconfidência, housed in the former colonial jail (Casa de Câmara e Cadeia), which today preserves artifacts, documents, and relics from the independence movement.
- Other architectural gems around the square include the School of Mines, the Museum of Science and Technology, and beautifully preserved 18th-century mansions.
- From the square, visitors can admire panoramic views of Ouro Preto’s hilly skyline, dotted with the baroque towers of churches like São Francisco de Assis and Nossa Senhora do Carmo.
- Tiradentes Plaza often hosts cultural events, national celebrations, and traditional festivals, especially during Holy Week and Independence Day.

Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Morning for quiet exploration or late afternoon when the golden light highlights the colonial façades.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking on steep, cobbled streets—Ouro Preto’s terrain is famously hilly!
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Museu da Inconfidência, Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, and the charming artisan shops scattered through the historic center.
- Dining Tip: The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants serving Minas Gerais cuisine try local dishes like tutu de feijão and pão de queijo.
- Photography Tip: Capture the square from the upper side near the museum for the best angle of the Tiradentes statue with the town’s churches in the background.