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Places of interest #5 in Belo Horizonte

Square Pampulha (Geralda Damata Pimentel)

4.6 · 11,632 reviews
Open, airy, and transit-focused
Square Pampulha (Geralda Damata Pimentel) - R. Versília, s/n - Pampulha, Belo Horizonte - MG, 31310-070, Brazil
Interesting facts
1

The square was renamed to honor Geralda Damata Pimentel, a prominent local social activist and educator.

2

The statue of Juscelino Kubitschek at the square was sculpted by the Brazilian artist Maria Carmem Guimarães.

3

The location is strategically positioned at the intersection of the primary access routes leading to the Pampulha Modern Ensemble.

4

It serves as a starting point for the 'Orla da Pampulha', an extensive urban shoreline infrastructure project.

5

The surrounding lake, Lagoa da Pampulha, is an artificial reservoir created in the 1940s to provide water and recreational space for the growing city.

Overview

Praça Geralda Damata Pimentel, commonly known as Square Pampulha, serves as the primary gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pampulha Modern Ensemble in Belo Horizonte. The square features a prominent statue of Juscelino Kubitschek, the former mayor who commissioned the landmark complex surrounding the lagoon. It acts as the central hub for the 18-kilometer cycle path that encircles the Pampulha Lake. The design integrates modern landscaping with views of the iconic Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. It serves as a major vantage point for viewing the sunset over the water and the nearby architectural highlights. The site is a key transition point for visitors exploring the outdoor museum of modernist Brazilian architecture.

Photo spot

The pedestal area near the Juscelino Kubitschek statue, which frames both the lagoon and the distant modernist architecture.

Insider tips

Bring a bicycle or rent one nearby to traverse the extensive path around the lake.

Use the elevated sections of the square to capture unobstructed views of the lagoon's architectural landmarks.

Stay hydrated as the open-air square offers limited natural shade during peak daylight hours.

What to avoid

Attempting to swim in the lagoon, as the water quality is generally restricted for recreational use.

Etiquette

Casual, respectful of public art installations, and mindful of cyclists on the adjacent lanes.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes to 1 hour
Best time to visit
Late afternoon to catch the sunset over the Pampulha Lagoon.
Address
Square Pampulha (Geralda Damata Pimentel) - R. Versília, s/n - Pampulha, Belo Horizonte - MG, 31310-070, Brazil
-19.860, -43.981
Get directions
Details
Key featureGateway to UNESCO Pampulha Modern Ensemble
LandscapingModernist urban square design

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon to catch the sunset over the Pampulha Lagoon..

The pedestal area near the Juscelino Kubitschek statue, which frames both the lagoon and the distant modernist architecture.

Close by you'll find Estádio Governador Magalhães Pinto, Parque Guanabara, Santuário Arquidiocesano São Francisco de Assis.