at a glance

the history and cultural heritage of freguesia are particularly rich. freguesia meaning 'Parish', was the historical meeting point of Catholic patrons and thus it owes it's origins to the ermida - today nossa senhora da ajuda chapel, erected by jorge souza at the end of the 17th century.

the church and its surroundings undewent a series of transformations caused by   historical events, varying owners and changing times. in 1816 a fire destroyed the church  building and it was not recuperated until fifty years later, when the architect antônio de padua e castro took the initiative to bring it back to life.

the end of the 19th century saw a growth in agriculture and the arrival of steam boats. by the beginning of the 20th century the first roads had been constructed and the bonde - tram - was extended along avenida paranapua to the end of guanabara beach, where it would then make its return trip.