Caeté

Caeté is a municipality in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is located in the eastern part of the state in the Southeast region, with the municipal seat in the town of Caeté. The area comprises urbanized centers and rural districts, set in a landscape of hills and valleys.

Historically, the region was inhabited by Indigenous peoples before Portuguese colonization. The name Caeté is associated with indigenous groups linked to the Caeté ethnographic area. The settlement grew during the colonial era as part of agricultural and regional trade activity, and the municipality developed as a local center for surrounding communities.

Geography and climate tell of a tropical highland environment, with temperatures that are generally mild to warm and a rainy season in the warmer months. The terrain includes elevations typical of the eastern Minas Gerais interior, contributing to agricultural suitability and scenic landscapes.

Economy is based on agriculture, including dairy cattle, coffee, and fruit cultivation, together with small-scale industry and a services sector that serves nearby rural areas. The municipality acts as a regional hub for commerce and basic services, supporting both urban residents and the surrounding countryside.

Infrastructure includes regional road connections to Belo Horizonte and other municipalities. The nearest major air hub is Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) near Confins, serving the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. Demographically, the population is concentrated in the urban core while a rural hinterland sustains agricultural activity. Cultural life features local religious and secular events, regional cuisine, and community traditions.