BARBACENA

barbacena, an inland town of brazil, in the state of minas geraes, 150 m. n.n.w. of rio de janeiro and about 3500 ft. above sea-level. the surrounding district is chiefly agricultural, producing coffee, sugar-cane, indian corn and cattle, and the town has considerable commercial importance. it is also noted for its healthiness and possesses a large sanatorium much frequented by convalescents from rio de janeiro during the hot season. barbacena was formerly a principal distributing centre for the mining districts of minas geraes, but this distinction was lost when the railways were extended beyond that point.