Tres Lagoas history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Três Lagoas begins long before its official recognition. The first settlers, known as "sertanejos" (backcountry pioneers), began developing these lands in the late 19th century. Among the pioneers, Protázio Garcia Leal and Antônio Trajano dos Santos stand out, having established the first livestock farms here around the 1880s.

A decisive moment was the arrival of engineers in 1909 for the construction of the railway, who set up camp near the banks of Lagoa Maior. The official founding date is considered **June 15, 1915**, when the settlement received municipality status. The city received its name ("Three Lakes") thanks to three large water bodies located within the city limits.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small settlement into an important regional centre was driven by several strategic factors:

• Noroeste Railway (Noroeste do Brasil): The construction of the railway line connecting the state of São Paulo with the west of the country became the main catalyst for growth. The opening of the station in 1912 and the completion of the bridge over the Paraná River turned the city into a key transport hub.
• Geographical Location: Its location on the border with the state of São Paulo, by the Paraná River, made the city a natural "gateway" to the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
• Water Resources: The presence of major rivers (Paraná, Sucuriú) and lakes provided not only water but also transport routes, and later — energy potential.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early decades, the economy of Três Lagoas was based on extensive cattle ranching. Cattle were the foundation of the local landowners' wealth, and the railway allowed for the efficient transport of produce to the markets of São Paulo.

The cultural character of the city was formed at the intersection of the traditions of cattle herders (who came mainly from the state of Minas Gerais) and the lifestyle of railway workers. This created a unique atmosphere where traditional rural customs coexisted with the technical progress of the early 20th century.

Chronology of City Development

• Late 1880s: The first settlers, including Protázio Garcia Leal, establish livestock farms in the region, laying the foundation for the future settlement.
• 1910: Engineers of the North-West Railway set up camp near Lagoa Maior, which is considered the beginning of the urban formation.
• June 15, 1915: Três Lagoas officially separates from Santana do Paranaíba and receives the status of an independent municipality.
• 1920: The first public school opens in the city, marking the development of social infrastructure.
• 1926: Grand opening of the Francisco de Sá railway bridge over the Paraná River, connecting the city with the state of São Paulo.
• 1954: The cornerstone is laid for the Santo Antônio Church, which subsequently became the cathedral and an important architectural monument.
• 1969: Commissioning of the "Engenheiro Souza Dias" (Jupiá) Hydroelectric Power Plant; its construction attracted new residents to the region.
• 1970s: Formation of the first industrial district, beginning the process of transforming the city from an agrarian centre into an industrial one.
• 2009: Launch of a major pulp mill (now owned by Suzano), starting a new economic era.
• 2012: Opening of the Eldorado Brasil factory, definitively securing the informal title of "World Capital of Cellulose" for Três Lagoas.
• 2015: The city celebrated the centenary of its administrative foundation on a grand scale, demonstrating high rates of urbanisation.

Stages That Shaped the Modern Look

The development of Três Lagoas did not occur linearly, but through powerful impulses, each of which radically changed the status and atmosphere of the city. Three global cycles can be identified that turned a small settlement into a strategically important centre of Brazil.

• The Railway Era: The arrival of the Noroeste mainline (Noroeste do Brasil) and the construction of the bridge over the Paraná River became the foundation of the city's identity. The railway not only connected the state of Mato Grosso do Sul with the country's economic centre but also defined the "grid" layout of the central streets, which is convenient for tourist navigation today.
• The Hydroelectric Turn: The construction of the Jupiá Dam (UHE Jupiá) in the mid-20th century changed the very geography of the region. The creation of the reservoir boosted the development of water tourism and fishing. Furthermore, this stage gifted the city the unique Vila Piloto district, built specifically for engineers and distinguished by its unusual circular architecture.
• The Industrial Revolution: The modern stage is marked by the arrival of the pulp industry. This economic boom attracted investment in the hospitality sector: modern hotels, quality restaurants, and a developed service sector appeared in the city, making the stay for travellers here much more comfortable.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

Três Lagoas is a relatively young city, so you will not find ancient ruins or medieval castles here. Its architecture is a reflection of Brazil's rapid development in the 20th century, where functionality intertwines with symbols of progress. The urban environment was formed in waves, following economic booms: from the railway to the construction of hydroelectric power plants.

Main Stages and Styles

The architectural landscape of the city can be divided into several key periods, each of which left its mark on the built environment:

• Railway Functionalism (Early 20th Century): The city's first permanent structures are linked to the railway. The Old Station (Estação Ferroviária) building is a prime example of the utilitarian architecture of that time: solid brick walls, tall windows, and wide platforms. This style symbolised reliability and connection with the outside world.
• Eclecticism and Neo-Gothic (Mid-20th Century): With population growth came the need for monumental public buildings. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Catedral Sagrado Coração de Jesus), construction of which began in the 1950s, demonstrates elements of Neo-Gothic style. Its upward-reaching spires, stained glass, and pointed arches create a majestic silhouette that dominates the city centre.
• Art Deco and Symbolism (1930s): A landmark object of this period is the Central Clock (Relógio Central), built in 1936. This monument, about 10 metres high with distinct geometric lines, became a symbol of modernisation and the orderliness of time, serving as an important reference point for citizens.
• Modernism and Planned Urbanism (1960-70s): The construction of the hydroelectric plant brought ideas of modern urbanism to the region. The Vila Piloto district was designed specifically for the dam's engineers and builders. It is a unique example of planned development with a circular street layout, inspired by "garden city" ideas and modernism, which contrasts sharply with the traditional grid of the centre.

Modern Development

Today, Três Lagoas is experiencing a new stage of urbanisation linked to industrialisation. Modern shopping centres, hotels, and residential complexes in a contemporary minimalist style are appearing in the city, harmoniously coexisting with historic buildings from the era of the first settlers.

Iconic Figures in the City's History

The history of Três Lagoas was created by bold pioneers, talented politicians, and cultural figures. Their names are immortalised in the names of the city's main streets, squares, and public buildings.

• Protázio Garcia Leal
  Pioneer and Founder
  A representative of one of the region's most influential pioneer families. He arrived in these lands in the late 19th century and played a key role in developing the territory. His family laid the foundations for local cattle ranching, which was the engine of the city's economy for a long time.
• Antônio Trajano dos Santos
  Landowner and Patron
  Considered one of the "fathers" of the city. It was he who donated part of his land for the construction of the railway station and the formation of the urban core. One of the main shopping streets in Três Lagoas is named in his honour.
• Ramez Tebet
  Politician, Lawyer, Statesman
  An outstanding politician on a national scale, born and having started his career in Três Lagoas (he served as the city's mayor). He subsequently became the Governor of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul and President of the Brazilian Senate. Many infrastructure facilities in the region bear his name.
• Simone Tebet
  Politician, Senator
  Daughter of Ramez Tebet, a native of Três Lagoas who continued the political dynasty. She served as Vice-Governor of the state and Mayor of the city, playing an important role in its industrialisation in the early 21st century. She is one of the most influential women in modern Brazilian politics.
• Flora Thomé
  Poet and Educator
  A cultural symbol of the city. Through her creative work and teaching activities, she made an invaluable contribution to the development of education and the arts in the region. Her poems often describe the beauty of the local nature and the daily life of Três Lagoas residents.
• Orestes Prata Tibery
  Entrepreneur and Rancher
  A legendary figure in Brazilian agribusiness. He was a pioneer in breeding Zebu cattle, turning Três Lagoas into one of the centres of livestock genetics. His activities contributed to hosting major agricultural exhibitions that attract tourists and business people.