Montes Claros history

The history of Montes Claros, located in the north of the state of Minas Gerais, is a story of the gradual settlement of the Brazilian sertão (arid hinterlands). The city grew from a small settlement into an important regional centre thanks to its strategic location and the enterprising spirit of its first settlers.

Foundation and Early Years

The first settlements in the territory of modern-day Montes Claros appeared in the early 18th century. These were farms and ranches established by explorers and cattle drovers (tropeiros) who were developing the region's vast lands. The settlement, initially known as Arraial das Formigas (Arraial das Formigas — "Settlement of Ants"), became an important stop on livestock driving routes.

Key Factors of Formation

• Geographical Location: The settlement was situated at the crossroads of trade routes linking the diamond and gold mining regions with the coast, which contributed to its growth as a centre for rest and supplies.
• Economic Development: The foundation of the early economy was cattle ranching. Fertile lands in river valleys and extensive pastures created ideal conditions for raising cattle.
• Political Status: In 1831, the settlement received the status of a village (vila) and was renamed Vila de Montes Claros de Formigas. Official city status was granted on July 3, 1857, which consolidated its administrative importance.

Cultural and Economic Features

The early culture of Montes Claros was closely tied to life in the sertão. The traditions of cattle drovers, agriculture, and Catholic festivals formed the basis of social life. The economy remained agrarian for a long time, focused on livestock and cotton cultivation. Gradually, the city transformed into a commercial hub for the vast rural area, which defined the trajectory of its further development up until the 20th century.

Key Moments in the History of Montes Claros

The history of the city of Montes Claros is a journey from a small settlement to a major regional centre in the north of the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil. Below are the main milestones of its development.

• 17th Century — The first expeditions of the bandeirantes, such as Fernão Dias Pais, explore the region inhabited by the indigenous Anais and Tapuia peoples.
• October 13, 1831 — The municipality is officially established under the name Montes Claros de Formigas.
• 1832 — Independent municipal life begins with the election and inauguration of the first Town Council.
• July 3, 1857 — The settlement receives city status and its modern name — Montes Claros.
• 1871 — The Charity Hospital (Santa Casa de Caridade) is founded, becoming a vital social institution for the city.
• February 2, 1880 — The Teacher Training College (Escola Normal de Montes Claros) opens, laying the foundations for education in the region.
• February 24, 1884 — The first issue of the weekly newspaper "Correio do Norte" is published, marking the beginning of local journalism.
• October 27, 1892 — The first telegraph line is installed in the city, improving communication with the rest of the country.
• 1920 — The first cars appear on the streets of Montes Claros, symbolizing the arrival of a new era.
• 1962 — The State University of Montes Claros (Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros) is founded, which is today a major educational and scientific centre.

Stages of Growth and Development of Montes Claros

From a modest settlement to a dynamic economic hub in the northern part of Minas Gerais state, Montes Claros has come a long way. The city's history is rich in events that have defined its modern appearance and significance for Brazil.

• Becoming an Administrative Centre (1831-1857): In 1831, the settlement was officially established, and by 1857, it had received city status. This period laid the foundation for future growth, turning it into an administrative and political centre for the surrounding agrarian territories.
• Arrival of the Railway (Early 20th Century): The construction of a railway line connecting Montes Claros with the country's key economic arteries provided a powerful boost for development. This simplified the transport of agricultural produce, especially cotton and meat, and facilitated the influx of goods and population.
• Industrialization (Mid-20th Century): The first industrial enterprises began to appear in the city. Of particular importance was the creation of a cement factory, which not only provided the region with building materials but also became one of the largest employers, changing the city's economic profile from agrarian to industrial.
• Foundation of the State University (1962): The creation of the State University of Montes Claros (Unimontes) in 1962 was a turning point in cultural and social life. The university transformed the city into the educational centre of northern Minas Gerais, attracting students and scholars and fostering the development of skilled professionals.
• Development of Healthcare: The modernization and expansion of hospitals, such as the historic Santa Casa, turned Montes Claros into a regional medical hub. Today, the city serves the population not only of its own municipality but of the entire northern part of the state.
• Cultural Flourishing: The opening of cultural centres, theatres, and museums, such as the Regional Museum of Northern Minas, strengthened the city's cultural identity. The annual August Festivals (Festas de Agosto) and the National Folklore Festival attract tourists and preserve local traditions.

The architectural appearance of Montes Claros reflects its history as a dynamically developing centre in the north of Minas Gerais state. The urban landscape presents a mix of the utilitarian architecture of early settlers, monumental structures of the early 20th century, and modern buildings that emerged as a result of industrialization and growth.

Main Architectural Stages

• Colonial and Vernacular Period (18th–19th Centuries): Early construction was simple and functional, typical of the Brazilian sertão. It consisted of fazendas (farms), modest residential houses, and small chapels built from local materials. The architecture of this period was subordinate to the practical needs of a cattle-ranching region.
• Eclecticism of the Late 19th – Early 20th Centuries: With the arrival of the railway and the strengthening of the city's status as a trading hub, features of eclecticism began to appear in the architecture. A landmark building of the era was the old Municipal Market, construction of which began in 1899. It symbolized economic prosperity and became a centre of public life.
• Neo-Gothic (1920s–1950s): The most outstanding architectural monument of the city is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Aparecida (Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida). Its construction took place from 1926 to 1950. The building is designed in a Neo-Gothic style with Romanesque elements, which is a rarity for the region. It is distinguished by soaring spires, a rose window, stained glass, and a majestic central tower over 65 metres high. According to one version, the Belgian-designed project ended up in Montes Claros by mistake, having been intended for another city. Today, the cathedral is the main symbol and landmark of the city.
• Modernism and Contemporary Development (from the 1960s): Industrialization, the opening of the university, and rapid population growth in the mid-20th century led to radical changes in the cityscape. Buildings in the spirit of Brazilian modernism appeared — functional, with clean lines. Active verticalization of the central districts began, along with the construction of new administrative, commercial, and residential buildings, which formed the modern look of Montes Claros.

The city of Montes Claros has given Brazil and the world many talented people who have left a significant mark on culture, science, politics, and sports. Here are just a few of the outstanding personalities associated with this city.

• Darcy Ribeiro (1922–1997) — Anthropologist, writer, politician, and one of Brazil's greatest intellectuals. A native of Montes Claros, he dedicated his life to defending the rights of indigenous peoples, founded the Museum of the Indian, and participated in the creation of the Xingu National Park. As an education reformer, he was the first rector of the University of Brasília and served as Minister of Education.
• Ciro dos Anjos (1906–1994) — Distinguished writer, journalist, lawyer, and professor. He was born in Montes Claros and became one of the bright representatives of Brazilian modernism. His novel "O Amanuense Belmiro" (1937) is considered a classic of national literature, and he was elected a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters.
• Cândido Canela (1910–1993) — Renowned poet, journalist, and public figure. His work, permeated with the culture and daily life of the northern part of Minas Gerais, earned him the people's love. Cândido Canela was also a city councillor, and a theatre in the city's Cultural Centre is named in his honour.
• Tião Carreiro (1934–1993) — Legendary musician, singer, and virtuoso player of the viola caipira. Although he was born in a district that then belonged to Montes Claros, he is considered one of the "godfathers" of modern sertanejo music. He created the unique "pagode-de-viola" rhythm, which forever changed Brazilian folk music.
• Guilherme Andrade (born 1989) — Professional footballer born in Montes Claros. Playing as a right-back, he played for famous Brazilian clubs, including Corinthians. As part of this team, he became a winner of the FIFA Club World Cup in 2012.