Did you know that Brazil’s second oldest city is on the coast of São Paulo? We are talking about Itanhaém, a refuge in the Baixada Santista region, just 110 kilometers from the state capital. The municipality was founded in 1532 as a small village between the Itanhaém River and Morro do Itaguaçu.
With almost five centuries of existence, the destination offers natural landscapes and a vast cultural heritage. In addition, it holds a mysterious “supernatural portal” that intrigues everyone from historians to ufology enthusiasts.
Sant’Ana Mother Church. Photo: Rogerio Cassimiro/MTur
Check out the best beaches in Itanhaém
With approximately 30 kilometers of coastline, the city has 14 beaches for all types of travelers. Praia dos Sonhos is one of the most popular, while Praia dos Pescadores (Prainha) attracts surfers and fans of the soap opera Mulheres de Areia. After all, the show was filmed there!
Families tend to like Pocinho de Anchieta, whose natural pool at the foot of Morro do Paranambuco offers a peaceful swim for children. Another quiet option is Praia da Saudade, which is located on the banks of the Itanhaém River.
Before visiting any beach in Itanhaém, however, it is important to check which ones are suitable for swimming during your visit. Check the weekly report on the bathing conditions of the São Paulo coast at this link.
Photo: Edmilson Sanches/Wikimedia Commons
Culture and history in Brazil’s second oldest city
The Historic Center is a must-see! The region offers a journey back to colonial times, with preserved buildings such as the Sant’Anna Mother Church and the Nossa Senhora da Conceição Convent. Another interesting visit is the Conceição de Itanhaém Museum, which formerly functioned as the Town Hall and Jail.
It is also worth visiting the famous Cama de Anchieta, a rock formation where the missionary José de Anchieta rested in the 16th century. Finally, mystics on duty can add Morro do Paranambuco to the itinerary. In addition to a natural viewpoint with a panoramic view, the site is home to a “Mystical Portal, “ with reports of mysterious lights and alleged supernatural apparitions.
