Lençóis history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Lençóis is inextricably linked to the "diamond rush" that swept through the region in the mid-19th century. The city was founded around 1844, when rich diamond deposits were discovered in the Chapada Diamantina mountains. News of the findings spread quickly, attracting thousands of prospectors dreaming of rapid wealth.

The city received its name, which translates from Portuguese as "sheets," due to a visual resemblance. The improvised tent camps of the first settlers, spread out on the rocky slopes, looked from afar like white linen spread out to dry.

Key Factors of Establishment

The transformation of a temporary camp into a thriving city was driven by several important factors:

• Geographical Location: The city was strategically situated in a valley between mountain ranges, becoming a natural centre for logistics and trade for the entire mining district.
• Economic Boom: The exceptional quality and quantity of the stones mined made Lençóis the third most important city in the state of Bahia during that era.
• Trade Connections: Diamonds from Lençóis were exported worldwide, ensuring an influx of foreign capital and goods.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In its heyday, Lençóis was known as the "Capital of Diamonds." Huge revenues from mining allowed for the creation of an island of European civilisation in the midst of the Brazilian interior.

Characteristic features of the early period of development:

• European Influence: The local elite looked to French fashion and culture. There was even a French vice-consulate in the city to facilitate the trade of gemstones with Europe.
• Luxury and Imports: In the shops of Lençóis, one could buy Parisian perfumes, fine textiles, and imported goods, while the homes of wealthy citizens were adorned with imported furniture and pianos.
• Architecture: The wealth of that era is captured in the colonial mansions and cobbled streets that have survived to this day, giving the city its unique charm.

Chronology of Lençóis Development

The history of the city has journeyed from the glitter of the diamond rush to quiet decline and subsequent revival as a tourism gem.

• 1844 — A group of prospectors discovers rich diamond deposits in the region, sparking the spontaneous settlement of the area.
• 1856 — The rapidly growing settlement receives administrative autonomy and the status of a "vila" (small town).
• 1864 — Lençóis officially receives city status, becoming by this time the third most important settlement in the state of Bahia.
• 1870s — The period of greatest prosperity and wealth, when a French vice-consulate operated in the city for direct trade with Europe.
• 1896 — The beginning of a prolonged economic crisis caused by the discovery of large diamond deposits in South Africa and a drop in global prices.
• 1920s — The city becomes a stronghold of power for Colonel Horácio de Matos, a key figure in the era of "coronelismo" (rule by local landowners).
• 1931 — Signing of a peace agreement and disarmament of private armies, marking the end of a period of internal conflicts in the region.
• 1973 — The architectural ensemble of Lençóis is recognised as a National Historic and Artistic Heritage site (IPHAN), protecting ancient buildings from demolition.
• 1985 — Creation of the Chapada Diamantina National Park, transforming the city into the main gateway for ecological tourism.
• 1996 — Introduction of an official ban on mechanised diamond mining, finally cementing the transition of the city's economy to tourism.

Key Stages of City Development

The history of Lençóis is a journey from a spontaneous prospector settlement to a world-class centre for eco-tourism. Each milestone has left its mark on the city's architecture and culture.

• Start of the Diamond Rush (1844).
  The discovery of rich deposits led to rapid urbanisation. The chaotic tent camp quickly transformed into a stone city with infrastructure that was advanced for its time, becoming the third most significant centre in the state of Bahia.
• Establishment of Direct Ties with France (Second half of the 19th century).
  The period of greatest economic power. The opening of a French vice-consulate allowed diamonds to be exported without intermediaries. This brought European culture, fashion, and architectural refinement to the city, turning Lençóis into the "Little Paris" of the Brazilian hinterland.
• Mining Crisis and Economic Stagnation (End of the 19th century).
  The fall in global diamond prices due to competition with South Africa led to capital flight. Paradoxically, it was the lack of funds for modernisation in the 20th century that saved the historic centre from redevelopment, preserving the unique colonial architecture.
• Era of the "Colonels" (1920s).
  During this period, Lençóis became the political stronghold of influential landowners (notably Colonel Horácio de Matos). This time consolidated the city's role as the administrative centre of the region, despite the economic downturn.
• Granting of IPHAN Protected Status (1973).
  The recognition of the city's architectural ensemble as national historical heritage was a turning point. This decision legally protected historic mansions from demolition and paved the way for the development of cultural tourism.
• Creation of the Chapada Diamantina National Park (1985).
  The final transformation of the city's economy. Lençóis became the main gateway to the national park, shifting focus from mining to the service sector, hospitality, and eco-tourism.

Urban Planning and Architectural Appearance

The architectural appearance of Lençóis was formed during the "diamond cycle" of the mid-19th century. The urban layout does not follow the rigid geometric grid characteristic of many colonial cities, but organically fits into the complex relief of the mountainous terrain. Streets wind along the Lençóis River and climb steep slopes, creating a picturesque and chaotic ensemble.

A characteristic feature of the city is the paving of streets with large rough stones ("pé-de-moleque"), which has been preserved in the historic centre in almost its original form.

Architectural Styles and Eras

Since the city's heyday occurred during a relatively short historical period, a single stylistic layer dominates in Lençóis, practically untouched by modern development.

• Brazilian Colonial Style (19th Century).
  The main architectural style of the city. Buildings are characterised by simple forms, thick walls made of adobe or stone, and high door and window openings. Facades are painted in bright colours (white, blue, ochre) with contrasting frames. Roofs are covered with clay tiles, often with decorative cornices (eirados).
• Neoclassical Influences (Second half of the 19th century).
  During the period of maximum wealth and active trade with Europe (especially France), elements of Neoclassicism appeared in the architecture of mansions belonging to the local nobility: symmetry of facades, the use of pilasters, triangular pediments, and more elegant decorative elements designed to emphasise the owner's status.

Iconic Buildings and Structures

The historic centre of Lençóis is under the protection of IPHAN (Institute of National Historic and Artistic Heritage) and represents a cohesive ensemble.

• Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário (Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário).
  The main Catholic place of worship in the city, construction of which began in 1851. The building combines features of colonial architecture and Neoclassicism, distinguished by a strict facade and a massive bell tower. Elements of the original decoration have been preserved in the interior.
• Cultural Market (Mercado Cultural).
  The building of the former municipal market, constructed in the late 19th century. The structure stands out for its open layout with arches, which served as trading rows for sellers of produce and goods brought by caravans.
• Afrânio Peixoto Culture House (Casa de Cultura Afrânio Peixoto).
  The residence where the famous Brazilian writer and physician Afrânio Peixoto was born. A typical example of residential architecture for wealthy citizens of the late 19th century: a two-story mansion with large windows and an inner courtyard. It now houses a museum.
• City Hall (Prefeitura Municipal).
  A majestic building reflecting the administrative importance of the city during the diamond rush era. It demonstrates the influence of European urban architecture of that time, adapted to tropical conditions.

Distinguished Personalities of Lençóis

The history of the city is rich with names that have left a significant mark not only in the chronicles of the Chapada Diamantina region but also in the culture of all Brazil. From powerful "colonels" of the diamond rush era to intellectuals and artists, these people shaped the character of Lençóis.

• Afrânio Peixoto (1876–1947)
  Physician, writer, politician, and academic.
  One of the most famous natives of the city. Peixoto was not only an outstanding forensic doctor and politician but also a prolific writer. He became one of the founders of the Brazilian Academy of Letters. A cultural centre (House of Culture) in Lençóis, located in the building where he was born, is named in his honour.
• Horácio de Matos (1882–1931)
  Political leader, "Colonel" (coronel).
  Although born in a neighbouring municipality, his name is inextricably linked to Lençóis, which was the centre of his power. Horácio de Matos was the most influential political boss of the region in the early 20th century. It was here that he signed the famous "Lençóis Agreement" with the federal government, effectively legitimising his private army of jagunços (armed mercenaries) to maintain order in the interior.
• Urbano Duarte (1855–1902)
  Journalist, playwright, and humorist.
  A native of Lençóis who achieved national recognition in Rio de Janeiro. He became famous for his witty chronicles and plays. Together with Afrânio Peixoto, he is among the founders of the Brazilian Academy of Letters (occupying Chair No. 12), making Lençóis a unique small town that gave the country two founding academicians.
• Dom Obá II d'África (1845–1890)
  People's leader, officer, and abolitionist.
  Real name — Cândido da Fonseca Galvão. Born in Lençóis, he was the grandson of the King of the African Empire of Oyo. A hero of the Paraguayan War and a colourful figure in Rio de Janeiro in the late 19th century, he was the unofficial "Prince of the People," defending the rights of former slaves and the poor, and enjoyed the respect of Emperor Pedro II.
• Orlando Senna (born 1940)
  Filmmaker, screenwriter, and journalist.
  A prominent figure in modern Brazilian cinema, born in Lençóis. One of the creators of the cult film "Iracema," he played an important role in the development of Latin American cinema and held high positions in the cultural sector of Brazil, promoting audiovisual arts.
• Felisberto Augusto de Sá (19th Century)
  Politician and landowner.
  Known as "Colonel Felisberto," he was one of the key figures during the heyday of diamond mining. His influence and wealth largely determined the urban development of Lençóis in the 19th century, and his family played a leading role in local politics for a long time before the rise of Horácio de Matos.