at a glance

during the prosperous period at the turn of the last century, when brazil was the leading world producer and exporter of coffee, many of the coffee plantations landlords built and occupied large mansions in the area - the beautiful buildings, paired with the characteristic cobblestone streets created a beautiful, unique, and exclusive district.

in 1872 the prestigious neighborhood opened the very first electric tram line in the country - the bonde, as it is referred to, became and remains a symbol of santa teresa. in its more recent history the community has succesfully rallied to maintain the iconic street cars and visitors can explore its history at the museu do bonde.