itaipú specifically is one of the oldest constantly inhabited districts around.

its name derives from an indigenous tupi word meaning 'water that comes from between the stones,' and several of its attractions are related to its age, including the itaipú archaeology museum (located in an old convent) and the church of são sebastião of itaipú, which dates back to the eighteenth century.

itaipú is also home to an artisanal fishermen's colony, this one formally organized in 1921.

to this day, these fishermen dedicate themselves to catching fish the old-fashioned way, using nets in non-motorized boats; their catch is sold fresh to the consumer the same day.