Before you enter the Chico Rei Gold Mine you need to pay a token fee of R$ 3,00 (US$ 1.50) to help maintain this historic monument. Stop at the reception area to do this. Here you can find samples of gold bearing rock, semi-precious gemstones and other interesting gold-mining artifacts from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuris. Sign the guestbook as you enter to be part of the history. Here is Marcelo, the owner´s grandson. He may very well be sitting here as you enter.