The Casarão do Pau Preto is one of the century-old buildings still standing in the state of São Paulo. Built in the early 19th century, the building preserves the beauty of colonial architecture and currently serves as a museum in Indaiatuba, in the Campinas metropolitan area.
Although it is now a symbol of the city, in the 1980s, the townhouse went through some tough times. The historic structure suffered from real estate development pressure and was nearly demolished; however, the mobilization of local residents led to its preservation. Now a historic landmark, the site features a permanent collection and offers free admission.
Discover the Casarão do Pau Preto!
Initially, the townhouse served as the parish house for the small chapel of Nossa Senhora da Candelária, the first chapel in the region. Its structure underwent expansions over the years, resulting in a blend of various construction techniques, such as hand-rammed earth, rammed earth, and English masonry.
Its grounds, spanning nearly 6,300 square meters, also include a large grove with over 100 trees. The main attraction is a 150-year-oldjatoba tree that has withstood Indaiatuba’s growth and urbanization!
The Casarão do Pau Preto underwent renovations that preserved its original architectural features. Today , it houses the Antônio Reginaldo Geiss Municipal Museum, which tells the story of Indaiatuba and its connection to the coffee industry in São Paulo. In addition, the park frequently hosts free workshops and cultural performances.
Things to Do in Indaiatuba
Voted one of the best cities in the country to live in, Indaiatuba balances the tranquility of the countryside with the infrastructure of a major urban center. The city is just 105 kilometers from São Paulo and is a great weekend getaway for São Paulo residents who want to explore the countryside without straying too far from the capital.
In addition to the Casarão do Pau Preto, the city is home to Brazil’s largest linear park. The Prefeito Doutor Clain Ferrari Ecological Park stretches 17 kilometers and features lakes, skate parks, BMX tracks, and bike paths! Another outdoor option is Mirim Park, perfect for family outings.
Indaiatuba is also part of the São Paulo Fruit Circuit. There are more than 200 farms producing organic grapes and acerola cherries, which open their doors to tourists who enjoy rural tourism.
📍 Where: Casarão do Pau Preto — Rua Pedro Gonçalves, 477 – Pau Preto Neighborhood
🗓️ Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Sundays, 8 a.m. to noon (museum) and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (woods)
🎟️ Price: Free admission
🏠 More information: Check out the Indaiatuba Department of Culture’s social media pages
