Egbert Brazilian Adventure: Nova Petrópolis

January 12 Monday

Elder and Sister Copa picked us up at 9:00 am. David had searched and searched the house for his wallet with no luck. He finally gave up, and we loaded into the car for our road trip of the day - to a German settlement/city known as Nova Petropolis.

We drove through some of the most beautiful countryside I have seen to date. Forest, farms, homes, businesses. Most of my pictures are video - and I haven't been able to load any.

In the early nineteenth century, the southern region of Brazil was part of constant land disputes between Portugal and Spain and was poorly developed and populated. In 1822, when Brazil was freed from Portugal, the Brazilian government invested in advertising to promote immigration to Brazil, mainly German and Italian.

Brazil did not have an army to maintain its national security from the advances of the Spanish troops. The Brazilian government found a way out. Convincing propaganda in Europe promoted the advantages of the new country (the right to land, peace, and food in abundance) and brought many immigrant families to reside in southern Brazil. The promises were not always fulfilled.

Entrance to Park

Nova Petropolis (founded in 1858) is recognized nationally and even internationally for keeping alive the essence of the German culture through the German accent, customs, abundant food, the warm hospitality, the Germanic architecture, and its cultural legacy. Our outing today was to visit the Parque Aldei do Imigrante. It was created to rescue and preserve the historic past of the immigrants who settled this region. The park was divided into three areas, the front which is the usual souvenir shops combined with some restaurants and a small playground, a nature/green area (trails, water, botanical gardens), and an area that features a charming historic village. We enjoyed all the areas.

Picking out a souvenier

Welcome to historical village

As we arrived at the park, David reached for his camera in his pocket. . . and pulled out his wallet! Very much a relief - but also welcomed by Ann as we went straight to the shops. Knitted and crocheted handicrafts were everywhere - and beautiful. I purchased a small crocheted piece; Ann and I both found a Christmas ornament that used native plant seeds and pods.

Cemetery - mid 1800s on

Chapel

Preaching from the "Ramiumptin"

Inside Chapel

We visited the restored historical village, sometimes hearing traditional German music playing in the background. The chapel and cemetery were of particular interest.

Other sites of the village and museum: