Before that, the region was known as Arraial do Espírito Santo do Itapecerica, which began to be settled around 1767. Divinópolis was elevated to the status of a municipality in 1912, the date considered its official founding.

• Catedral Square / Cathedral of the Holy Spirit – One of the city’s main landmarks, featuring modern architecture and a beautiful view, especially at night.

• Divinópolis Historical Museum – Houses objects, photos, and documents that tell the story of the city since its founding.

• Usina Gravatá Municipal Theater – A cultural space set in a former power plant, where plays, concerts, and events take place.

1. Feijão tropeiro – A signature dish of Minas, made with beans, manioc flour, eggs, sausage, and pork cracklings.

2. Chicken with okra and cornmeal porridge (angu) – Very common in homes and restaurants, a classic of Minas cuisine.

3. Pão de queijo (cheese bread) – Found everywhere in Divinópolis, usually served at breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

4. Vaca atolada – Made with beef and manioc, a typical dish from the rural areas of the region.

5. Doce de leite and guava paste – Traditional sweets, often homemade, widely enjoyed in the city.

6. Pastel de angu – A cornmeal dough pastry filled and fried, common at festivals and fairs.

7. Coffee brewed in a cloth filter – Served with almost every typical meal, symbolizing Minas hospitality.

The event takes place every year, usually in June, at the city’s Exhibition Park, attracting thousands of visitors from the region.

During Divinaexpo, there are various activities and attractions, such as:

• Professional rodeos with bull and horse riding;

• Music shows featuring famous sertanejo and other artists;

• Exhibitions of animals and agricultural products;

• Gastronomic and craft fairs;

• Amusement park rides and traditional food stalls.

Besides being a moment of fun and culture, Divinaexpo is also important for the local economy, as it boosts commerce, tourism, and creates temporary jobs.

JB Palace Hotel - Centro;

Hotel Fátima - Centro;

Center Palace Hotel - Centro;

The most recent estimate (July 2024) is 242,328 inhabitants.

The city offers delicious traditional food, traditional festivals like the Divinaexpo, beautiful squares and parks, and is also an important fashion and commercial hub in Minas Gerais.

In summary, Divinópolis combines history, culture, nature, and hospitality, making it a great destination for anyone who wants to experience the true Minas Gerais lifestyle.

What is your family’s hometown like?

What is the most beautiful city you have ever visited? And in Minas Gerais? Why? What makes it so beautiful?

What city would like to visit most? And in Minas Gerais?

What is my favorite place in Minas Gerais and why?

My family’s hometown is also in Minas Gerais, it's called Bom Jardim. It is smaller and more rural than Divinópolis, with peaceful landscapes, farms, and mountains, where people know each other and life feels calm and simple.

The most beautiful city I have ever visited in Minas Gerais is Ouro Preto. Its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and baroque churches make it feel like stepping back in time. The mountain landscapes and cultural richness are truly breathtaking.

I would like to visit Rio de Janeiro the most because of its famous beaches, mountains, and vibrant culture. In Minas Gerais, I would love to visit Tiradentes, because of its historic charm, small streets, and traditional food.

My favorite place in Minas Gerais is Divinópolis itself, because it is my hometown. I love its friendly people, delicious food, and the mix of nature and city life. It feels welcoming and has a special energy that makes everyone feel at home.