I know, same day posting but I gotta finish this!

On to Easter...

Ouro Preto retains a rich history mainly because of the Gold Rush in the 17th and 18th century...but there is also another history.

Holy Week.  On Good Friday, the churches began to decorate outside.  They place purple over the steps of the main church and have a procession following a mass and reading of the Passion of Christ.

  This picture shows the three crucified figures on the steps outside of the front doors, which they then took Jesus down and began their procession throughout the streets.

On Saturday evening begins the decoration of the streets themselves.  The houses hang carpets and flags from their windows 

and the people decorate the street with different figures in sawdust.  It almost wasn't sawdust, though I can't really name what it was, and all the books claim it is sawdust.

Some of the drawings are artistic, some fun, some relating to Easter and have a religious theme.... 

Some use templates, some draw with chalk...

They all have their own way of decorating.  This process takes most of the night....

and Sunday morning, the route for the procession after the Easter mass follows it's path.  It was amazing to see the street transformed overnight.

This section, in the foto below, was right in front of the church that gave the mass.  It is interesting, depending on whether it is an even or odd numbered year is what determines where the mass is held and what route is taken for the procession.

The procession involves many members of the community, retelling in their costumes and props, the stories of Jesus.  These little children really looked like angels and were absolutely beautiful!

It was an amazing experience to be there during this week.  So, no matter what bad was placed on us by the guide, we didn't let it ruin this chance to witness such an incredible city.