Recognized by UNESCO in 2001 as a Historical National Heritage Site, the village of Goias Velho was founded in 1725 when pioneers discovered gold in the Rio Vermelho, a tributary of the Araguaia. Situated at 496 meters high in the foothills of the Serra Dourado the old Vila Boa is one of the best preserved historical sites in Brasil. Known as Goias Velho, it was the capital from 1749 when the government first created this province until 1937 when the government transferred the capital to Goiania (148km away). This well preserved city with underground electric lines and period style street lamps has received much funding for historical restoration but still lacks investments for upgraded sewer treatment, clean- up of environmental pollution and other basic infrastructures. To travel to Goias Velho from Brasilia take highway BR-060 to Anapolis, cross the city in the direction of Neropolis and Inhumas and then take highway BR-070 to Itaicu, Itaberai and on to Goias (see map). From Goias Velho one can travel on to Araguaia river (Aruana) and Mato Grosso (Barra do Garca). See more under History and Ecology with many photos.