Ruins of São Miguel das Missões - is the ancient ruins located in the Brazilian province of Rio Grande do Sul. Translated from the Portuguese name means "The mission of St. Michael." Ruins Ruins of São Miguel das Missões are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the mid-17th century Jesuit missionaries founded a mission Ruins of São Miguel das Missões, intending to use it to pay the Guarani Indians to Christianity. The mission was founded near the settlement of the Indians Itayaseko. Later, the mission was moved to its present location.

Mission at the time inhabited by about 4000 Indians to Christianity. In 1735 begins the construction of the Baroque church.

In 1750, Portugal handed the territory of Spain. Jesuits were ordered to leave the mission. After they refused to do so, they used the power of the Spanish Army. Later, the Spanish troops seized all the land Ruins of São Miguel das Missões.

In 1929, in the town of Sant'Angelo, which is close to the Ruins of São Miguel das Missões, it built a replica of the Cathedral of the mission.

In 1940 a museum was opened mission. In the museum you can see a large number of wood sculptures depicting saints. They were carved by the Jesuits and Indians. Some of the sculptures reach 2 meters in height.

Currently Ruins of São Miguel das Missões - famous landmark of Brazil. For tourists are organized excursions to the ruins of the mission.