Ouro Preto is located in the state of Minas Gerais, southeast of Brazil. Its name was inspired by the black gold (ouro preto in Portuguese) found in the region at the time of its discovery. Until today, the city maintains the architectural characteristic of the colonial period of Brazil.

Its most famous sights are the baroque and rococo churches with stunning paintings and sculptures in its interior. Ouro Preto is the city where Antonio Francisco Lisboa, better known as Aleijadinho, was born and died. He is one of the most famous Brazilian architects and sculptors. Many of his works can be found in the city, such as the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.