Vacaria history

Vacaria is a city with deep historical roots, whose past is inextricably linked to the settlement of Brazil's southern lands and Gaucho traditions. The name of the city itself, derived from a Spanish word meaning "herd of cows" or "grazing area," speaks eloquently of the reasons for its emergence.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Vacaria begins long before the official founding of the municipality. In the 17th century, Spanish Jesuits created extensive cattle ranching grounds here, known as "Vacaria de los Pinares". The monks introduced cattle, which grazed freely on the region's natural pastures.

Although the Jesuits later left these places, the huge herds of wild cattle they left behind attracted the attention of Portuguese settlers and cattle hunters in the 18th century, which served as the impetus for the creation of a permanent settlement.

Key Factors of Formation

The development of Vacaria was determined by several important geographical and economic factors:

• The Tropeiros' Path: The city emerged on the strategically important route known as the Caminho das Tropas. This was the road along which muleteers (tropeiros) drove cattle from Rio Grande do Sul to the markets of Sorocaba (São Paulo state).
• Geography: Its location in the Campos de Cima da Serra region ("Fields on Top of the Mountain") provided ideal conditions for livestock farming thanks to extensive pastures and a cool climate.
• Transit Point: Vacaria became an important resting point for caravans, where traders could replenish supplies, repair equipment, and rest their animals.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of early Vacaria was built almost exclusively on livestock farming. Ownership of land and herds determined the social status and influence of local residents. It was here that the unique culture of the inhabitants of the mountainous south was formed, combining a rugged lifestyle with hospitality.

Over time, agriculture was added to cattle ranching, but the spirit of the first settlers has been preserved in local traditions. Vacaria is rightfully considered one of the historical centers of Gaucho culture, where the customs of the pioneer ancestors are honored to this day.

Major Historical Milestones

• Early 18th Century — Jesuits organize "Vacaria dos Pinhais," a vast territory for grazing cattle, which gave the future city its name and economic foundation.
• 1761 — The church parish (freguesia) of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira is officially established, around which a permanent settlement began to form.
• Late 18th Century — The settlement secures its status as a strategically important resting point on the famous tropeiros (cattle drovers) path connecting the south of the country with the center.
• 1878 — Vacaria receives the status of an independent municipality, gaining political and administrative autonomy from neighboring regions.
• 1912 — The foundation is laid for the Cathedral of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira, a unique architectural monument resembling Notre-Dame and built from local basalt.
• 1958 — The first International Rodeo "Crioulo" (Rodeio Crioulo Internacional) takes place, marking the beginning of the tradition of hosting one of the largest folklore festivals in Latin America.
• 1970s — An experiment in industrial apple growing begins in the region, which proved successful and radically changed the city's economy.
• Present Time — Vacaria is officially recognized as the "National Apple Capital" and continues to develop as a center for agrotourism and the preservation of Gaucho culture.

Stages of Development and Transformation of Vacaria

The evolution of Vacaria is a journey from a shepherd's stop to a modern agro-industrial center. Below are the key moments that shaped the modern appearance and economy of the city.

• Establishment on the "Tropeiros' Path"
  Significance: Its geographical position on the cattle driving route turned Vacaria from a wild pasture into a strategic logistics hub. This ensured the influx of the first permanent residents and the development of trade and services for travelers, laying the urban foundation of the future city.
• Administrative Emancipation (1878)
  Significance: Obtaining the status of an independent municipality allowed local authorities to manage taxes independently and plan territorial development. This kickstarted the formation of urban infrastructure distinct from rural settlements.
• Construction of the Stone Cathedral (Nossa Senhora da Oliveira)
  Significance: The erection of a monumental temple made of local basalt in the early 20th century not only created the city's main architectural symbol but also marked the center of public life, around which urban development continued to evolve.
• The "Apple Revolution" (1970s)
  Significance: The introduction of commercial apple growing was a turning point in the economy. The city ceased to depend exclusively on cattle ranching. This led to the creation of processing plants, cold storage facilities, and new jobs, securing Vacaria the title of "National Apple Capital."
• Establishment of the International Rodeo "Crioulo"
  Significance: Transforming a local holiday into an event of international scale made Vacaria the main guardian of Gaucho traditions. This stimulated the development of event tourism and the hospitality business, attracting hundreds of thousands of guests every two years.
• Development of the BR-116 Transport Artery
  Significance: The passing of one of Brazil's most important federal highways through the city integrated Vacaria into the national logistics network, simplifying the export of agricultural products to ports and large metropolises, which strengthened the region's investment appeal.
• Diversification of Agribusiness (Modern Stage)
  Significance: Expanding the range of cultivated crops (small berries, soy, corn, flowers) and the development of viticulture ensure the city's economic stability, reducing risks associated with crop failures of a single monoculture.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architectural landscape of Vacaria was shaped by the influence of its geographical location and climate. Unlike the coastal cities of Brazil with their lavish Baroque style, restraint and monumentality prevail here, dictated by the harsh winters of the highlands and the availability of natural materials. The urban structure follows the classic Portuguese scheme: development radiating from a central square with a temple to the periphery.

Main Styles and Eras

Several distinct historical layers can be traced in the city's development:

• Rural Colonial Style (18th–19th centuries): The era of the region's formation. Characterized by "casarão" type buildings (large houses) on fazendas (farms). Main features: use of rough stone, wood (Araucaria), and clay tiles. The style is strictly utilitarian, devoid of decorative excesses.
• Eclecticism and Neo-Gothic (Early 20th century): The period of the city's affirmation as a regional center. The most significant public and religious buildings were erected during this time, often using local dark basalt, which gives the architecture a unique, slightly rugged look.
• Modernism and Contemporary Development (from the 1960s): A period of agro-industrial growth. The urban environment was supplemented by functional concrete buildings, typical of mid-century Brazilian modernism, as well as modern commercial developments.

Iconic Buildings and Places

Vacaria's appearance is defined by several key objects reflecting its history:

• Cathedral of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira: The undisputed architectural landmark. The temple is built of hewn basalt and bears features of Neo-Gothic style (vertical orientation, two towers on the facade), resembling the silhouette of Notre-Dame Cathedral, but in a unique "stone" execution.
• Fazenda do Socorro: One of the oldest architectural monuments in the state. It is a vivid example of traditional architecture from the tropeiro era, preserving the spirit of the 18th century.
• General Daltro Filho Square: The central public space around which the historic center is formed. The layout of the square and surrounding buildings demonstrates the transition from old developments to more modern forms.

Distinguished Figures of Vacaria

Vacaria is the birthplace of a number of famous figures who have made significant contributions to the culture, politics, and arts of Brazil. Here is a list of the most significant persons associated with this city:

• Raymundo Faoro — Lawyer, sociologist, and writer (1925–2003)
  One of the most influential Brazilian intellectuals of the 20th century, a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters. His fundamental work "The Owners of Power" (Os Donos do Poder) is considered a key work for understanding the political and social structure of Brazil.
• Gasparino Zorzi — Musician and composer (1903–1972)
  A virtuoso of the accordion (gaita-ponto) and a pioneer of traditional music in the Rio Grande do Sul region. His work played an important role in popularizing Gaucho culture and preserving the musical heritage of "Campos de Cima da Serra."
• Ione Borges — TV presenter and journalist (born 1951)
  Recognized as the "Queen of Daytime TV" in Brazil. For many years she was the face of the TV Gazeta channel, becoming a style icon and one of the most recognizable women in the country's media space.
• João Antônio Dib — Engineer and politician (born 1929)
  Served as mayor of the state capital, Porto Alegre, and was also a deputy. Known for his contribution to the development of urban infrastructure and public administration in Rio Grande do Sul.
• Ronaldo Cunha Dias — Doctor and cartoonist (born 1951)
  A talented graphic artist whose works have received international recognition. Combining medicine with art, he became a laureate of numerous awards for his witty caricatures and drawings.
• Dom Ângelo Domingos Salvador — Catholic Bishop (1932–2022)
  A prominent religious figure who served as bishop in several dioceses (including Cachoeira do Sul and Uruguaiana). Known for his pastoral activities and contribution to the spiritual life of the region.