Criciuma

The history of Criciúma dates back to January 6, 1880, when the first settlers arrived on these lands. These were families of immigrants from Italy who came to Brazil seeking a new life and vast opportunities. It was they who laid the foundation for the future city, bringing with them the rich culture and hardworking traditions of their homeland.

Interestingly, the city got its name from the Criciúma plant—a variety of local thorny bamboo that grew in abundance in the region. Initially, the settlement developed as a small agricultural colony where residents diligently cultivated the land, gradually expanding into new territories.

The turning point in the city's development was the discovery of vast coal deposits. This event completely shifted the region's economic direction and defined Criciúma's future for many decades. The city rapidly transformed into the country's main coal industry center, earning the unofficial title of "Brazil's Coal Capital." This boom led to rapid population growth and the development of urban infrastructure.

Although the coal industry remains an important part of Criciúma's identity, today the city boasts a diversified economy. It has become a significant center for the production of ceramic tiles, plastic products, and textiles in the state of Santa Catarina. The spirit of entrepreneurship and the hard work instilled by the first immigrants remain the hallmark of this dynamic city to this day.

Key Milestones in the History of Criciúma

January 6, 1880 — Recognized as the official founding date of the settlement, when the first Italian immigrant families arrived in the region.

Late 19th Century — Discovery of significant coal deposits, a turning point that predetermined the city's economic future.

November 4, 1925 — The settlement officially gains municipality status, separating from Araranguá, and is named Criciúma.

1947 — Founding of the football club Comerciário, which would later be renamed Criciúma Esporte Clube and become a symbol of the city.

Mid-20th Century — Criciúma reaches the peak of its coal production and firmly establishes itself as the "Coal Capital of Brazil."

June 2, 1991 — Criciúma Esporte Clube achieves a historic victory in the Copa do Brasil, one of the most celebrated events in the city's modern history.

Late 20th - Early 21st Century — The city's economy begins to actively diversify, with the development of powerful clusters for ceramic tiles, plastic goods, and clothing production.

Key Transformation Moments in Criciúma

Beyond the obvious milestones associated with the coal industry, the history of Criciúma is filled with significant events that shaped its modern cultural, social, and innovative landscape. These stages demonstrate the city's commitment to improving quality of life and creating a new legacy.

• The Educational Revolution (1968). The founding of the Criciúma Education Foundation (FUCRI), which was transformed into the University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina (UNESC) in 1997, was a turning point. This step laid the foundation for the city's transformation from an industrial center into an important educational and scientific hub for the region, training specialists for the innovative economy.
• Establishment of the Main Cultural Center (1981). The opening of the Elias Angeloni Theater (Teatro Elias Angeloni) marked a new stage in the city's cultural life. The theater became the main stage for concerts, plays, and festivals, strengthening Criciúma's status as a magnet for talent and cultural events in the south of the state.
• Reimagining the Industrial Past (2011). A unique example of transformation was the opening of the Octávio Fontana Visitation Mine (Mina de Visitação Octávio Fontana). Turning a real coal mine into a tourist attraction not only preserved the memory of the industrial heritage but also created a new point of interest, symbolizing the transition from mining to tourism and ecology.
• Development of Public Spaces (2011). The inauguration of the Cincinato Naspolini Park of Nations (Parque das Nações Cincinato Naspolini) on the site of a former coal mine was a landmark event. This large-scale project gave residents a modern area for recreation, sports, and mass events, including the famous Festival of Ethnicities (Festa das Etnias).
• Innovation Leap (2019). The launch of the Iparque science and technology park at UNESC confirmed the city's course toward innovation. The park has become an ecosystem for startups and high-tech companies, promoting the development of new industries and solidifying Criciúma's reputation as a future-oriented city.

The architectural landscape of Criciúma is a visual chronicle of its evolution: from a modest settlement of Italian immigrants to a thriving industrial center and a modern city. While you won't find medieval Gothic or Renaissance styles here, you can trace how economic and social changes were reflected in stone, brick, and concrete. The city's urban development can be divided into three key stages.

Legacy of Italian Colonists: Functionality and Simplicity (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

The early construction of the city, founded in 1880, was dictated by the practical needs of the first settlers from Italy. Architecture during this period was simple and functional. Small wooden and brick houses predominated, often built by the families themselves. The primary goal was to create reliable housing and outbuildings for farming. Elements of this heritage are carefully preserved today, such as the replica of one of the first houses in the Parque das Nações.

The Coal Era: From Art Deco to Modernism (Mid-20th Century)

The boom of the coal industry in the mid-20th century brought prosperity to the city and became a catalyst for the construction of more monumental and stylistically distinct buildings. During this period, structures with elements of Art Deco and early Brazilian Modernism appeared in Criciúma, reflecting the confidence and industrial spirit of the era.

• St. Joseph Cathedral (Catedral São José): Although the first church was founded in 1907, the cathedral acquired its current appearance after a reconstruction that began in 1946. Its architecture combines elements of Romanesque and Modernist styles, and its two 45-meter bell towers have become the main visual symbol of Criciúma.
• Jorge Zanatta Cultural Center (Centro Cultural Jorge Zanatta): Located in the former headquarters of the National Metallurgical Company (CSN), this center is a striking example of the functional administrative architecture of that time.
• Neusa Nunes Vieira House of Culture (Casa da Cultura Neusa Nunes Vieira): The old town hall building, listed as a historical heritage site, represents the austere and restrained architecture typical of public buildings in the mid-20th century.

Modern Face: Innovation and Public Spaces (Late 20th – 21st Century)

With the gradual move away from coal dependency, Criciúma's architecture began to reflect its new identity as a city focused on education, technology, and high quality of life. This period is characterized by large-scale projects, the use of modern materials (concrete, glass, metal), and the repurposing of former industrial zones.

• University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina (UNESC): The university campus is a complex of modern buildings designed with an emphasis on functionality, openness, and the creation of a comfortable educational environment.
• Cincinato Naspolini Park of Nations (Parque das Nações Cincinato Naspolini): This landmark project, opened in 2011, is an example of successful revitalization. A multifunctional public space with pavilions, recreation areas, and an event stage was created on the site of a former coal mine, symbolizing the city's transition from an industrial past to a "green" future.

Notable Figures Associated with Criciúma

The city of Criciúma, known for its industrial heritage and cultural diversity, has been the birthplace or a significant chapter in the lives of many prominent Brazilian figures. Here are a few of them:

• Diomício Freitas (1900–1972) — An entrepreneur and politician, one of the pioneers of the coal industry in the region. He founded one of Brazil's largest coal mining companies and made a fundamental contribution to the city's economic development, serving as Mayor of Criciúma and a Federal Deputy. The airport serving the city is named in his honor.
• Ruy Hülse (1926–2016) — An engineer and politician who served two terms as Mayor of Criciúma. He is considered one of the most significant city leaders in its history, as his administration oversaw large-scale urbanization projects and the creation of key infrastructure, including the construction of major avenues.
• Éder Aleixo de Assis — A former footballer, a left-winger famous for his powerful strikes. Although born in another state, his career is closely linked to the Criciúma club. Éder was a standout player for the legendary Brazil national team at the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
• Zelair Bressan — A writer, historian, and professor born in Criciúma. She is the author of numerous books dedicated to the history of the city and the southern region of Santa Catarina state, including works on the coal industry and waves of immigration. Bressan is a key figure in preserving the cultural and historical heritage of Criciúma.
• Tiago Splitter — A former professional basketball player and coach. Although born in another city in the state, Splitter is an iconic figure for the entire region. He made history as the first Brazilian to become an NBA champion as part of the San Antonio Spurs in 2014.
• Valdo Filho — A well-known former footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. Born in the neighboring city of Siderópolis, he began his career in the region. Valdo played for the Brazil national team and celebrated clubs such as Grêmio, Benfica, and Paris Saint-Germain.