The first planned capital city in Brazil, Belo Horizonte will be 112 years old in December, 2009.

Its vocation for business tourism attracts an ever growing number of visitors, generating new business and investments.  Recognized as a center of excellence in the fields of medicine, biotechnology and computation, the city hosts important domestic and international events, and offer a top-notch hotel infrastructure.  

Famous for its many bars and restaurants, as well as for the unique Minas-style cuisine, Belo Horizonte also boasts a variety of tourist attractions: The lake and the Architectonic Complex of Pampulha, Liberdade Square and Palace, recently restored, the busy and multi-colored Savassi region, shopping malls, and the popular Arts & Crafts Fair of Avenida Afonso Pena, among others.
DISTANCES FROM BELO HORIZONTE
Brasília 741 km (460 miles)
Rio de Janeiro 446 km (277 miles)
Vitória 525 km (326 miles)
São Paulo 586 km (363 miles)
Porto Alegre 1709 km (1060 miles)
Ouro Preto 98 Km (61 miles)
Tiradentes 207 Km (128 miles)
Salvador 1355 Km (840 miles)

MINAS GERAIS

Today, Minas Gerais has the third largest state economy in Brazil. In 2006, the state's GDP reached R$ 208.7 billion. The state’s strategic location in the Southeast Region, the most highly developed region in Brazil, as well as its excellent infrastructure, has leveraged investments in Minas Gerais. The state's population today is 19.6 million, representing 10% of Brazil's population. There are 9.96 million economically active people contributing to the economy’s good performance, together with an important consumer market in the state.