Paraíba do Sul between railway heritage and mineral springs

Paraíba do Sul combines a rich railway history with the central Jardim Velho square, cultural collections and mineral-water springs. When choosing a holiday rental, it helps to consider which aspect of the town you want to focus on during your trip: local history and museums, theatre and culture, or scenery and mineral springs.

Squares and historic routes

Jardim Velho, also known as São João Marcos, is a large central square. Its imperial palms were planted in 1868 in the shape of a Maltese cross. The first settlement of what is now Paraíba do Sul began beside the Rio Paraíba do Sul at this square. Historic routes are also part of the town’s history: via the Caminho Novo, Paraíba do Sul is part of the Estrada Real route, opened by Garcia Rodrigues Paes. The historic Caminhos do Proença passed through Sant’Anna de Sebollas, which today belongs to the Inconfidência district. Paraíba do Sul is considered one of the oldest towns in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Railway heritage across different periods

The first Paraíba do Sul railway station was inaugurated by Emperor D. Pedro II in 1867 and later demolished. The current station building was designed and built by Paulo de Frontin in 1898 for the Melhoramentos do Brasil railway. The two dates mark distinct chapters in the railway’s history: the early station, which no longer exists, and the building that came later. It was expanded in 1913. Beside what is now Avenida Ayrton Senna, a new platform and an underpass between the platforms were built, making passenger traffic easier at the time.

A 14-kilometre stretch of the Trem da Estrada Real ran from the station in the centre to Cavarú station in the 4th District. A historical account notes that the section had previously been reactivated, while also stating that the tourist train was not operating at the time. A Baldwin steam locomotive, built in 1910, has 16 seats. If the train is relevant to your travel plans, check its current operating status in advance.

Collections, theatre and local heritage

The cultural complex in the station building includes the Centro Cultural Maria de Lourdes Tavares, craft shops, the Museu Ferroviário, the Museu Iconográfico, the Galeria Cultural, the Memorial dos Prefeitos and the Cinema Popular. The Museu Ferroviário José Pereira Palhares holds three-dimensional, documentary and photographic collections on the history of the regional railway network. Items in the collection were donated by retired employees of the former Central do Brasil.

The Museu Iconográfico Nicolino Visconti showcases the history of the town, its routes and its residents. Its photographic collection spans the 19th century to the end of the 20th century. The Theatro Municipal Mariano Aranha offers a different cultural experience: it hosts theatre companies and music groups, as well as stage, music and dance performances, and is home to the Fundação Cultural. Ari Barroso gave the first public performance of the song “Aquarela do Brasil” there.

In Inconfidência, the 3rd District of Paraíba do Sul, you’ll find the Museu Sacro Histórico Tiradentes, which opened on 21 April 1972. Its collection includes 18th-century sacred images, the former altar from the first local chapel, church furnishings, documents, an Alferes uniform and historical objects. It also includes remains attributed to Tiradentes. The museum’s origins are closely connected with the history of Sebollas and Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, known as Tiradentes.

In 1972, on the 150th anniversary of independence, the SEC and Paraíba do Sul’s municipal government designated the Monumento a Tiradentes, the Museu Sacro Histórico de Tiradentes and the Igreja Matriz de Sant’Anna as official landmarks. They represent local history and Brazil’s independence.

Mineral springs, views and local treats

Parque Salutaris is considered one of Paraíba do Sul’s main attractions. Its springs supply alkaline, magnesium-rich and iron-rich mineral water. Pedra da Tocaia is the highest point in Paraíba do Sul and offers views of the town. Parque Linear do Lucas has been described as a sustainable, integrated project to enhance the environment and Ribeirão do Lucas. These different connections with the landscape can add another focus to your stay.

Local treats have their own appeal, too: you can sample handmade sweets from Paraíba do Sul, and a visit to a winery is also recommended. Check in advance whether a visit fits your travel dates.

Choose the right location for your holiday rental

First, consider which themes interest you most during your stay. If railway history, collections and theatre are your priorities, plan your search around the cultural sites you want to visit. If you’d rather include mineral springs and scenic views in your trip, add these destinations to your personal itinerary. Compare the locations of specific holiday rentals with the addresses that matter most to you; this will help you choose a base that suits the experiences you have planned.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Cavaru, Conceição de Macabu, Mesquita, Rio Claro, Rio de Janeiro, Queimados, Macuco, Carmo.

For the broader travel overview: Rio De Janeiro.