We know that sometimes you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Rio and find a quieter place to relax. So one tip is to take advantage of the towns that are close to the capital such as Vassouras. Have you been there? Less than 3 hours from Rio, the town has plenty of options to enjoy and relax. Find out more about its past and see what to do there!
The region was once one of the largest coffee producing centers in Brazil and the world!
Located in the south of the state of Rio de Janeiro, the municipality of Vassouras was once part of the so-called Coffee Valley, considered one of the most important economic centers in the times of the Empire.
Due to its fertile soil and climate, the city became one of the largest coffee producers and also one of the richest in the country. It was during this period that the imposing historic farms, many of them built with slave labor, as well as sumptuous mansions and palaces for the rural aristocratic elite, emerged (and are still preserved).
The name Vassouras came about because of the abundant plants that covered the slopes of the region, popularly known as ‘vassourinhas’.
What to do in Vassouras? Options for visiting the city!
With a historical past marked by contrasts, the city of Vassouras is a unique destination, well worth a visit!
Among the options for visiting the city, the historic center is one of the best preserved in Brazil and boasts impressive architecture. A good idea is to go to Praça Barão de Campo Belo, one of the city’s main attractions.
Surrounded by imperial palm trees and with a Monumental Fountain right in the middle, the square is surrounded by historic mansions and colorful buildings.
In addition, the Casa da Hera Museum is another great option, as it preserves the history of one of the most important families of the Vassourense elite in the 19th century, the Teixeira Leite family.
Another great tip is to visit the Cazuza Cultural Center. It is located opposite Praça Barão de Campo Belo and is home to some of the city’s exhibitions, concerts and other artistic attractions.
The name is no coincidence: Lucinha Araújo, mother of singer Cazuza, was born there and spent several years on vacation with him and his family. Thus, the second floor of the house is reserved for the singer’s memory, with clothes, photos and even a desk that the artist used during his childhood.
Finally, you can’t miss the Old Railway Station. The last train passed through in 1970, but to this day the place attracts locals and tourists for its immense historical value.
The station also houses a rare example of the Baldwin Locomotive, which used to run on the D. Pedro II Railroad. A real trip back in time!