Mina do Chico-Rei. Acording to Lonely Planet, "Brazil's first abolitionist was Chico Rei, an African tribal king. In the early 1700's, amid the frenzy of the gold rush, an entire tribe, along with its king, was captured in Africa, sent to Brazil and sold to a mine owner in Ouro Preto. Chico Rei worked as a foreman of the slave miners. Working Sundays and holidays, he finally bought his freedom from the slave master then freed his son Osmar. Together they freed the rest of the tribe. This collective then bought the fabulously wealthy Encardideira Gold Mine and Chico Rei assumed his royal functions once again, holding court in Ouro Preto and celebrating African holidays in traditional costume. News of this reached the Portuguese king, who immediately prohibited slaves from purchasing their freedom."

Before the diamond and gold mines played out, they produced vast fortunes for their owners and the region. This is the interior of the Minas de Passagem (1719-1985), the largest gold mine open to the public in the world. There are 9 levels and 7 entrances. Over 266 years of operation, miners dug out 35 tons of gold.

Photos displayed with the kind permission of Peter and Jackie Main