Porto Seguro History – a fascinating story
Porto Seguro history is a fascinating story of discovery starting in 1500, when a Portuguese fleet of ships under the command of one Pedro Alvares Cabral first discovered Brazil. Cabral and his crew first sighted Brazil at Santa Cruz de Cabralia (named after Cabral himself), but they did not weigh anchor until they reached the calm bay, about 30 kilometers south, which Cabral called Porto Seguro, or “Safe Bay”.
After setting foot in Brazil for the first time on the piece of coast that today is Porto Seguro, Cabral refreshed his fleet of twelve ships with fresh water and food, and sailed on to India after just nine days in this newly discovered territory. During that time Cabral and his crew met the “Tupiniquin” native Indians who dwelled in that region, and wrote a now-famous letter describing the area, its scenery and peoples. That letter is sometimes referred to in Bahia history stories as Brazil’s “birth certificate”!
Porto Seguro history tells us that the first Portuguese settlement in this area was in 1503, when one Duart Coelho led an expedition to these parts. It was not until three decades later, however, in 1534, that the city of Porto Seguro was officially inaugurated.
In Porto Seguro history, the economy was originally supported by the exploitation of Brazil wood, or “Pao-Brazil”, farmed from the surrounding rainforest, as well as the fishery industry.
From the 1970’s onwards, Porto Seguro history has changed beyond belief as due to massive investment it has become one of the top tourist destinations in Brazil. With fascinating Bahia history, the temperate climate, wonderful beaches plus the party elements of great music, dancing, food and drink, Porto Seguro is a very popular location with both tourists and Bahians alike.
In spite of the rapid boom of tourist activity, the monuments, character and history of Porto Seguro have been well conserved. Investment in the base infrastructure of the city has meant that the rapid influx of tourists and tourist industry developments have not spoiled the city. A strict prohibition on the construction of buildings greater than three floors in height has meant that much of the old colonial charm of the city has been successfully retained.
If you visit Porto Seguro, you will see that the city is steeped in history. There are many historical monuments to visit that are of importance to Bahia history as well as Porto Seguro History.
From Porto Seguro History back to Porto Seguro Brazil Guide
Porto Seguro culture attractions
Porto Seguro culture attractions are many and varied. Porto Seguro culture attractions include Porto Seguro churches, museums, Porto Seguro art and architecture
The Porto Seguro Museum
The Porto Seguro Museum is a well-loved piece of Porto Seguro culture. Bahia history is portrayed at the Porto Seguro Museum, or “Museum of the Discovery.”
Porto Seguro Old City Centre
The Porto Seguro Old City Center is full of cultural and historical monuments. Visit the Porto Seguro Old City Center and learn about Bahia history.