Virgem da Lapa

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Virgem da Lapa is a small municipality in the northeast of Minas Gerais, Brazil. It sits in the Jequitinhonha region, with the Jequitinhonha River running through it and the Araçuaí River forming part of its border with Francisco Badaró.

Key facts
- Population: about 13,700 people (2020)
- Area: about 869 square kilometers
- Location: Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Coordinates: roughly 16.82° S, 42.35° W
- Website: virgemdalapa.mg.gov.br

Etymology
The name Virgem da Lapa means “Virgin of the Cave.” It honors Nossa Senhora da Lapa, whose image was found near the city in a cave that is now a sanctuary. She is the patron saint of the local Diocese of Araçuaí.

History
The area was originally inhabited by the Aranã people. Later, prospectors looked for precious stones. In 1729, a Portuguese landowner obtained land on both sides of the Araçuaí and Jequitinhonha rivers. The discovery of the image of Nossa Senhora da Lapa helped establish the settlement of São Domingos do Araçuaí. It became its own municipality on December 27, 1948.

Geography
Since 2017, Virgem da Lapa has been part of the Intermediate Geographic Region of Teófilo Otoni and the Immediate Geographic Region of Araçuaí. The main access road is BR-367, with MG-114 linking to MG-677.

Economy
The economy has a GDP of about R$162.6 million. About 52% comes from public administration, followed by services (around 36%), agriculture and livestock (about 7%), and industry (around 4%). Per capita GDP is approximately R$13,800.

Culture
The main annual festival is Festa de Agosto, a celebration in honor of Our Lady of Lapa. It attracts many pilgrims and features street vendors and evening performances by popular artists in the city center.

Notes
Virgem da Lapa is a Brazilian municipality in Minas Gerais with a rich religious heritage, a resources mix centered on public services, and a notable yearly festival that draws visitors from the region.