Historical Significance

Itu, located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, is a city steeped in historical significance. Founded in 1610 by the bandeirante Domingos Fernandes, it became a launching point for expeditions that expanded the Portuguese territory into the interior of Brazil. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Itu flourished economically through sugarcane and coffee plantations, contributing to Brazil’s agricultural wealth. The city is famously known as the “Cradle of the Brazilian Republic” because it hosted the Itu Convention in 1873, a pivotal meeting that led to the formation of the Republican Party of São Paulo. This event was a significant step toward the proclamation of the Brazilian Republic in 1889. With its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic churches, Itu stands as a testament to Brazil’s colonial past and its journey toward modern nationhood. Today, it attracts visitors interested in exploring the roots of Brazilian history and culture.

Itu is often referred to as the “Brazilian Rome” due to its abundance of magnificent Catholic churches. The city’s landscape is dotted with steeples and domes, each belonging to a church rich in history and architectural splendor. For instance, the Church of Our Lady of Candelária (Igreja Nossa Senhora da Candelária) boasts Baroque architecture with intricate wood carvings and gold leaf accents that reflect the artistry of the colonial era. The Church of Our Lady of Carmo (Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo) features a stunning façade and houses beautiful religious paintings and statues. Another notable landmark is the Church of the Good Jesus (Igreja do Bom Jesus), renowned for its grand altar and Rococo-style decorations. While I can’t provide images, envisioning these historic churches conjures scenes of towering bell towers, ornate altars, and stained-glass windows that capture the essence of Itu’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

Fachada da antiga fábrica São Luiz inaugurada em 1869 na cidade de Itu - interior de SP - A Fábrica de Tecidos São Luiz foi a primeira a vapor do Estado de São Paulo

Local: Itu, São Paulo, Brasil Data: 09/2009

Autor: João Prudente

Places to Visit

Landmark architecture in the town center of Itu city for marketing.

O Centro Cultural Fábrica São Pedro está localizado em Itu, há 50 minutos da capital de São Paulo, e ocupa o espaço da antiga tecelagem Fábrica São Pedro. O Fama Museu é o principal inquilino do espaço, contando com um acervo amplo e versátil de arte brasileira, desenvolvendo constantemente as suas atividades culturais, museológicas e educativas

O Espaço Cultural Almeida Junior é um dos principais centros artísticos e culturais da cidade de Itu. No espaço são realizados mostras temporárias, recitais, sarais, apresentações musicais e teatrais, cursos e palestras.

O sobrado histórico onde está instalado é o local em que se realizou, em 18 de abril de 1873, a Convenção Republicana de Itu

O artista brasileiro Eduardo Kobra abriu um ateliê no FAMA Museu, em Itu, com o objetivo de tornar a arte e a cultura cada vez mais acessíveis