Founded at the end of the 17th century, Ouro Preto (Black Gold) was the focal point of the gold rush and Brazil's golden age in the 18th century. With the exhaustion of the gold mines in the 19th century, the city's influence declined but many churches, bridges and fountains remain as a testimony to its past prosperity and the exceptional talent of a Baroque sculptor called Aleijadinho. The hostel we stayed at was up a little hill at the top of the city in a great setting.  It was surrounded by trees and beautiful greenery and had a stunning view of the lower city and its surroundings.  The place had flashes of humming birds and higher up there were condor-like larger birds circling the air.   The few days we were there were spent meandering through the slippery cobbled streets, (trying not to slip in our slip-flops), visiting museums and churches (which after seeing at least a hundred in the last few days grew monotonous) and window-shopping (as we couldn't afford any of the gold rings on offer!) Watching life go by was entertaining as it was either a struggle uphill or a quick sweep downhill!  Its crazy to think that at one point this tiny little city was the capital of Brazil, as it must have been almost impossible to manouver anything up or down the cobbled streets. The nights were spent sitting in the kitchen and terrace with people from the hostel as there wasn't much going on in terms of night-life.  We talked, debated, argued and philosophised into the early hours of the morning, so being all talked-out and ready for some fun, we headed back down South...