Submitted by Comunicação DRI on Wed, 06/24/2026 - 13:19
Maurício Leonard
Written by Maria Eduarda de Lima and published on the official UFOP website."
The Architecture and Urbanism Program in the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP), in partnership with the International Relations Office (DRI) and the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso (Chile), holds another edition of the Cultural and Artistic Exchange Project Travessia Itatiaia, in the district of Itatiaia, in Ouro Branco, from November 18 to 28. The initiative fosters cultural exchanges, research on traditional knowledge and the construction of a playful structure in the community's central square.
In its fifth edition in Minas Gerais, Travessia brings together 44 students and professors from the fields of Architecture and Design in PUC-Valparaíso, including participants from Norway, France and Spain. Over ten days, the delegation experiences cultural practices, visits local heritage sites and shares experiences with residents who preserve the history, techniques and ways of life unique to the region.
Travessia projects have been held annually since 1984 and propose to carry out poetic and experimental explorations across the Americas, bridging theory and practice on a real basis. For students, the project offers the opportunity to experience collaborative processes and gain a deep understanding of diverse Latin American realities.
Local engagement involves residents and community leaders in Itatiaia. Lawyer and resident Jéssica Dias emphasizes that "the Travessia project represents much more than a one-off action. It symbolizes our community's ongoing struggle for dignity, reparation, and collective empowerment."
Artist and cultural articulator Kelvin Adam highlights that “Travessia is an important cultural initiative for Itatiaia, as it strengthens recognition of our practices, traditions, and customs. It is a significant decolonial movement, making visible the indigenous and African influences in the community through intercultural exchange." Kelvin works in the reparation and cultural appreciation of the community, based on his work with herbs and enchantments.
Throughout the ten days, the district hosts public activities, such as community dialogues, workshops, guided tours, ecological walks, artistic performances, and cultural exchanges between residents and students.
Travessia Itatiaia is an extension and internationalization action of UFOP, supported by the Municipality of Ouro Branco, as well as various institutions, community associations and residents.
More information about the Travessia project is available on the website of the School of Architecture and Design of the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso.
