This historic building, erected in the 18th century by order of the provincial governor Dom António de Noronha, was built to house the newly established Regular Cavalry Regiment of Minas, regarded as the founding core of today’s Military Police of the State of Minas Gerais.
Over time, the space was repeatedly adapted, and in 1816 it also became the Royal Stud Farm of Cachoeira do Campo, dedicated to breeding Lusitano horses brought to Brazil by King João VI to cross with Sorraia and Crioulo mares — a union that gave rise to the Brazilian Mangalarga breed.
Later, the site hosted an Agricultural Colony, and between 1897 and 1997, it fulfilled its most enduring vocation as home to the Dom Bosco College, run by the Salesian Fathers. For a century, generations of young people were educated here under the inspiration of Saint John Bosco (1815–1888), the Italian priest canonised in 1934 and known as the “Father and Teacher of Youth.”
His educational method, grounded in faith, culture, and closeness, promoted a pedagogy of love, joy, and hope — Religion, Reason, and Kindness (Amorevolezza).
The memorial arises from this legacy: to preserve the memory of the Salesian presence in Cachoeira do Campo, which made the Dom Bosco Centre a symbol of culture, spirituality, and dedication to youth.
