Campos dos Goytacazes history

The city of Campos dos Goytacazes, located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, boasts a rich history closely tied to Brazil's economic development. Its name reflects both the geographical features and the indigenous population of the region.

Foundation and First Settlements

The history of European exploration of these lands begins in the 17th century. The settlement, which later grew into the city, was officially founded in 1677 as a village. Campos dos Goytacazes received city status significantly later, on March 28, 1835. The name is derived from two components:

• "Campos" (Portuguese for "fields"), indicating the flat landscape of the area.
• "Goytacazes" — in honour of the indigenous Goytacá tribe that inhabited these lands prior to the arrival of colonisers.

Key Factors of Establishment

The primary engine of the region's development for several centuries was the agrarian industry. Fertile lands and flat terrain created ideal conditions for large-scale agriculture.

• Sugarcane: From the 17th century right up to the 20th century, the region was one of the largest centres for sugar production in Brazil and even the world. Sugarcane cultivation shaped the economy, social structure, and culture of the city, which was sometimes called the "Sugar Capital".
• Trade and Geography: Proximity to the Atlantic coast and its location on the route between important economic zones facilitated the development of trade.
• Oil Industry: In the 1970s, offshore oil extraction began, giving a powerful new impetus to the city's economy and earning it the unofficial title of the "Oil Capital".

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy, based on sugarcane plantations, formed a society with a distinct social hierarchy. Owners of sugar factories (usinas) constituted the elite, while slave labour was used to work the fields. The cultural life of the city developed under the influence of Portuguese traditions and African heritage. By the end of the 19th century, Campos dos Goytacazes was already a sufficiently modern and developed city for its time.

Chronology of Key Events

The history of Campos dos Goytacazes is a journey from an agrarian centre to one of Brazil's key industrial hubs. The city has repeatedly been a pioneer in the country's technological and social transformations.

• ~1650s — Active cultivation of sugarcane begins in the region, determining its economic development for three centuries and bringing it fame as the "Sugar Capital".
• May 29, 1677 — The settlement of Vila de São Salvador dos Campos is officially founded, becoming the core of the future city.
• March 28, 1835 — The settlement receives city status and its modern name, Campos dos Goytacazes.
• 1873 — Railway traffic opens, connecting the city with other regions and significantly simplifying sugar transport.
• June 24, 1883 — Public electric lighting is ceremoniously launched in Campos, making it the first city in Latin America to implement this technology.
• 1888 — The abolition of slavery in Brazil fundamentally changes the social and economic structure of the city, whose economy was built on labour in sugar plantations.
• 1974 — The state company Petrobras discovers the first major oil field in the Campos Basin off the coast, opening a new era in the city's history.
• 1977 — Industrial offshore oil extraction begins, bringing Campos the unofficial title of "Oil Capital".
• 1991 — The Darcy Ribeiro State University of Northern Fluminense (UENF) is founded, quickly becoming an important educational and scientific centre of the region.

The development of the city of Campos dos Goytacazes passed through several distinct stages, transforming it from an agrarian settlement into a modern energy capital that Brazil takes pride in. Below are the key milestones that defined the current appearance and status of the city.

• The Era of "Sugar Civilisation" (from the 17th century).
  Sugarcane cultivation became the foundation of the region's economy. The emergence of numerous sugar mills (engenhos) not only enriched the local elite but also formed a unique architectural and cultural environment that defined the city's social structure for a long time.
• Technological Breakthrough of the 19th Century (1883).
  The launch of street electric lighting was a landmark event, making Campos the first city in Latin America with such technology. This event symbolised the wealth of the region and its aspiration for modernisation, attracting the attention of Emperor Pedro II.
• Transport Revolution and Railways.
  The construction of railway lines in the second half of the 19th century and the development of the canal system (including the Campos-Macaé canal) radically improved logistics. This allowed for the efficient export of sugar and import of goods, strengthening the city's role as a trading hub.
• Industrialisation of the Agrarian Sector.
  The transition from old estates to large mechanised factories (usinas) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries allowed the city to maintain economic influence even after the abolition of slavery and the fall in global sugar prices, by modernising production processes.
• Urban Planning Reform (Agache Plan).
  In the mid-20th century, the city underwent massive redevelopment under the guidance of architect Donat-Alfred Agache. Avenues were widened, dilapidated structures were demolished, and new public spaces were created, giving the centre a more modern and orderly appearance.
• Discovery of Oil Fields (1974).
  The discovery of oil in the Campos Basin was a turning point in modern history. The city became the main base for offshore extraction, receiving huge investments and tax revenues (royalties), which led to rapid growth in construction and the service sector.
• Emergence as a University Centre (1990s).
  The founding of the State University of Northern Fluminense (UENF) and the development of other higher education institutions diversified the life of the city. This attracted students and scientists, contributing to the development of science and technologies not directly related to the oil industry.

The architectural appearance of Campos dos Goytacazes is a visual chronicle of its economic history, from the era of "sugar barons" to the times of the "oil rush". The city has preserved a rich heritage, where colonial style sits alongside neoclassicism, eclecticism, and modern structures. Campos is considered the second city in Brazil in terms of the number of buildings in the eclectic style.

Colonial Heritage and Neoclassicism (17th–19th Centuries)

The wealth accumulated from sugar production was reflected in monumental architecture. This period is characterised by the construction of luxurious mansions (solares) and churches in the Baroque and, later, Neoclassical styles. These buildings demonstrated the power and status of their owners — major landowners.

• Solar do Visconde de Araruama: Built at the end of the 18th century, this mansion is a prime example of neoclassical architecture. Today, this majestic building, which once served as the residence of the Viscount of Araruama and later the City Hall, houses the Campos Historical Museum.
• Monastery of São Bento (Mosteiro de São Bento): Its construction began in the mid-17th century. This complex, including the monastery and chapel, is one of the oldest in the region and represents an example of early colonial architecture.
• Solar dos Ayrizes: A beautiful example of Baroque architecture, constructed from precious woods.

Eclecticism and Modernisation (Late 19th – Early 20th Centuries)

The end of the 19th century, marked by the abolition of slavery and the arrival of the railway and electricity, brought new architectural trends. The Eclectic style, blending elements of different eras, actively developed in the city. It reflected the city's aspiration for progress and modernity.

• Historic Centre: São Salvador Square (Praça São Salvador) and the surrounding streets are a veritable open-air museum where one can see a variety of architectural styles testifying to different stages of the city's life.
• Cathedral Basilica of the Most Holy Saviour (Catedral Basílica Menor do Santíssimo Salvador): Although the first church on this site was built as early as 1678, the current cathedral building, located in the heart of the city, is the result of numerous reconstructions, the last major one dating back to the 20th century.
• Palácio Nilo Peçanha: The building that today houses the City Chamber was built in the Greco-Roman style and inspired by the Athenian Parthenon.

Modern Development (From the Mid-20th Century)

With the opening of oil fields in the 1970s, a new stage of urbanisation began. The city started to grow rapidly, leading to the appearance of modern developments, new residential areas, and infrastructure facilities. In 1944, an important urban reconstruction plan was developed under the leadership of architect Donat-Alfred Agache, which laid the foundations for the city's modern spatial development. This period is characterised by functional modernist and contemporary architecture aimed at meeting the needs of a growing population and a new economy.

Distinguished Personalities in the City's History

Campos dos Goytacazes is the birthplace of many outstanding Brazilians who have left a significant mark on the politics, art, science, and public life of the country. Their names and achievements are an important part of the city's cultural heritage.

• Nilo Procópio Peçanha (1867–1924)

  Politician, seventh President of Brazil. Born in Campos, he became one of the key political figures in the country's history. He served as President from 1909 to 1910, and also as Governor of the state of Rio de Janeiro. During his administration, he founded the Ministry of Agriculture, Commerce, and Industry and the first system of technical education in Brazil, for which he is considered the patron of vocational education in the country.

• José do Patrocínio (1853–1905)

  Journalist, writer, and activist. One of the most prominent figures in the movement for the abolition of slavery in Brazil. Born in Campos, he used his talent as an orator and journalist to fight for the liberation of slaves, earning the nickname "The Tiger of Abolitionism". His activities had a huge influence on the passing of the "Golden Law" in 1888, which put an end to slavery.

• Benta Pereira (approx. 1675–1760)

  Historical heroine, rebellion leader. In the 18th century, this landowner led a revolt of local farmers against the abuses of power by the Portuguese Crown. Displaying extraordinary courage, she became a symbol of the struggle for justice and the rights of the region's inhabitants. Today, streets and schools bear her name, and she is revered as one of the first female leaders in Brazilian history.

• Zezé Motta (born 1944)

  Actress and singer. A native of Campos, Zezé Motta is one of the most famous and respected artists in Brazil. She has played dozens of roles in cinema, theatre, and television, and has also achieved success as a singer. Beyond her contribution to culture, she is an important figure in the movement for the rights and representation of black artists in the country.

• Saturnino de Brito (1864–1929)

  Engineer and urbanist. An outstanding Brazilian engineer considered a pioneer in the field of sanitary engineering and urban planning in the country. Born in Campos, he developed projects for the sanitation and modernisation of many Brazilian cities, making a huge contribution to improving public health and infrastructure.

• Wilson Batista (1913–1968)

  Composer. One of the great masters of the "Golden Age" of samba. A native of Campos, he moved to Rio de Janeiro and authored numerous classic sambas performed by the most famous singers of that time. His music remains an important part of Brazilian musical culture to this day.