Welcome to Águas Vermelhas, a charming city located in the northeast of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. With a population of approximately 13,599 people and a total area of 1,258 km², this municipality is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Águas Vermelhas belongs to the mesoregion of Jequitinhonha and to the microregion of Salinas, and its municipal seat is located at an elevation of 758 meters.
History
Águas Vermelhas became a municipality in 1962 and is located on the Rio Mosquito, just 13 km west of the important BR-116 highway. It forms a boundary with the state of Minas Gerais and its municipal boundaries are with Ninheira, Divisa Alegre, Curral de Dentro, Berizal, São João do Paraíso, and Medina.
Economy
The main economic activities in Águas Vermelhas are cattle raising and farming. In 2005, the GDP was R$50,544,000 and there was one banking agency. In the rural area, there were 596 farms with around 2,000 people involved in the agricultural sector. The main crops were coffee, bananas, sugarcane, beans, manioc, and corn.
Healthcare
In terms of healthcare, there were 4 health clinics and 1 hospital with 46 beds. The score on the Municipal Human Development Index was 0.628, which ranked Águas Vermelhas 792 out of 853 municipalities in the state. Despite this, the city still offers quality healthcare services to its residents and visitors.
Tourism
Águas Vermelhas may not be a well-known tourist destination, but it has plenty to offer visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and natural attractions, including the Rio Mosquito and the Serra do Espinhaço mountain range. Visitors can also explore the city’s rich history and culture by visiting landmarks such as the Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião and the Casa da Cultura.
Food
No trip to Águas Vermelhas is complete without trying the local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious traditional dishes, including feijão tropeiro (a bean and pork stew), pão de queijo (cheese bread), and doce de leite (caramelized milk). Visitors can also enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farms.
Conclusion
Águas Vermelhas may not be on everyone’s radar, but it is a city worth exploring. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it offers a unique and authentic Brazilian experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Águas Vermelhas has something for everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!