Volta Grande combines a specific railway connection with Brazilian film history: the station of the Estrada de Ferro Leopoldina opened in 1874, and Humberto Mauro, a pioneer of Brazilian cinema, was born here. An exhibition of wood carving adds to the cultural history; the Cachoeira da Usina is also listed as a tourist attraction. In this way, dated historical events meet film and art connections, as well as a natural feature. These different approaches can help you organize your interests for a stay.

Two historical railway landmarks

The Estrada de Ferro Leopoldina station in Volta Grande opened in 1874; Emperor Pedro II was present at the opening. This links the station's history to an exact date and a specific visit. Another historical landmark followed on February 17, 1990: the RFFSA opened a Centro Ferroviário de Cultura at the Estação de Volta Grande. The cultural center was later moved from the station to the city center, where it had already been located for some time. The two dates mark different events: the station opened in 1874, and the cultural center opened in 1990. Those interested in railways can place Volta Grande's history in context through an early station opening and the later cultural history.

Film history and wood carving

Humberto Mauro was born in Volta Grande, Minas Gerais, and became a pioneer of Brazilian cinema. The Estúdios Rancho Alegre are also located in Volta Grande; they were used for many of Mauro's short films and documentaries. The film connection therefore has two aspects: Mauro's biographical link to the town and the use of the studios for his films. On June 27, 2025, the Casa de Cultura Humberto Mauro presented “O Imaginário em Madeira,” an exhibition by railway artist José Heitor da Silva. The self-taught woodcarver created figures from trunks and roots, depicting stories from everyday life, popular religiosity, and Afro-Brazilian culture. The exhibition therefore offers a different focus from film history: its focus is on carved figures and the stories they embody.

Chapel and natural attraction

The state heritage register of Minas Gerais lists the Igrejinha – Capela Nossa Senhora do Rosário in Volta Grande for the period from 2003 to 2005. This entry is another cultural reference with a defined time period. The Cachoeira da Usina is also listed as a tourist attraction in Volta Grande, adding a natural theme to the selection.

Different ways to experience your stay

When choosing a theme for your visit, you can also consider the kind of connection involved. The railway history can be traced chronologically through two openings and the cultural center's later move. Film history connects a biographical birthplace with the studios used for Mauro's films. By contrast, the exhibition by José Heitor da Silva focuses on materials and the stories they tell. These cultural experiences differ, even though they all contribute to Volta Grande's character.

Discover more destinations: Fazendinha, Campanha, São Roque De Minas, Bom Despacho, Muriaé, Varginha, Conceição Da Ibitipoca, São Brás Do Suaçuí

Back to the regional travel overview: Minas Gerais.